Why Do People Fantasize About Zombie Apocalypses Instead of Real Ones?

The fascination with zombie apocalypses has taken center stage in popular culture, overshadowing more pressing and real apocalypses such as climate change, nuclear war, asteroid impacts, and pandemics. This article explores why people are more inclined to fantasize about fictional zombie scenarios rather than the threats posed by real apocalypses.

Delving into the Fantasy

Zombies, despite being universally recognized as fictional, hold a unique appeal in pop culture. They are unstoppable and mysterious, adding a layer of suspense and unpredictability. In contrast, events like climate change, while they exist and are backed by scientific evidence, feel too abstract and distant to capture the public's imagination. Superheroes, like Superman, Spiderman, or Wolverine, also exist in the realm of fantasy, meaning their threats can be defeated. Zombies, however, are often portrayed as nearly invincible, making them a thrilling topic for enthusiasts and media creators alike.

A significant reason for the popularity of zombie apocalypses is the escapism they provide. In a world where many adults and teenagers are preoccupied with fantasy, drugs, alcohol, video games, and social media, zombie apocalypses offer a shared escape. These digital and real-life distractions consume a large portion of people's time, often leaving little room for reality. Most individuals spend about 8 hours a day in the tangible world, while the rest is spent in virtual or imagined environments. This shift towards fantasy may be a coping mechanism for the harsh realities of modern life.

Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse

Surprisingly, a zombie apocalypse could potentially be survived, with limited impacts on the natural environment. Unlike a nuclear war or a supervolcano eruption, which could devastate the planet, a zombie apocalypse wouldn’t lead to a significant collapse of the ecosystem. People could continue to grow their own food, and the climate would likely remain stable. This stability is a stark contrast to the terrifying and immediate impacts that real apocalypses could have. People who survive a nuclear war or a supervolcano eruption may face a world where resources are scarce and hazardous conditions prevail.

On the other hand, climate change is a pressing reality. It has already had a devastating impact on the environment, leading to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and a loss of biodiversity. The only way to mitigate these effects is to drastically reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources, a transition that is proving to be politically and socially challenging. While some sense the impending doom of climate change, they often deny its existence or minimize its impact to maintain their way of life. Unlike zombies, climate change is a very real and undeniable threat.

Lack of Critical Thinking

Much of the population appears to be apathetic or uncritical in their thinking about these issues. Basic critical thinking skills seem to be lacking, making people more susceptible to escapism and fantasy. Fictional scenarios offer a comforting narrative that allows people to ignore the challenges of real-world problems. While intelligence is more often praised than criticized, the ability to exercise critical thinking remains elusive for many individuals.

The Role of Fashion and Current Trends

The current trends in media and literature play a significant role in perpetuating the fascination with zombie apocalypses. Like vampires in the last century and Mars-based science fiction today, zombies have become a fashionable topic. They resonate with the public's imagination and are easily consumed through various media channels. This trend is cyclical, and as time passes, zombie apocalypses may lose their appeal, giving way to new and different fears and fantasies.

Whether the next trend will be a pandemic or Mars-based science fiction remains to be seen, but it is clear that these topics will continue to capture the public's attention in different ways. Zombie apocalypses offer a form of escapism and excitement, making them a compelling subject for media consumption and public discourse. However, it is crucial to recognize the real apocalypses that threaten our existence and take proactive steps to mitigate their impacts.