Chapter 5: International Conflict and War- Wakanda Forever?

International Relations Theories & Black Panther

Theories of international relations (IR) provide frameworks for understanding how states and societies interact, make decisions, and pursue power in an interconnected world. These theories aren’t just abstract ideas—they offer tools to analyze real-world events, helping us grasp the forces driving conflict, cooperation, and change. In the Marvel film Black Panther, the fictional state of Wakanda becomes a fascinating case study for these theories. With its vibranium-fueled technological dominance, Wakanda faces key dilemmas about isolationism, intervention, and leadership. Through the ideological conflict between T’Challa and Killmonger, we can see how different IR theories interpret the causes of conflict and the nature of power. By examining realism, liberalism, constructivism, Marxism, and feminism in the context of Wakanda, we can better understand both the film’s narrative and the broader dynamics of global politics.

Realism

Realism is often considered the “power politics” theory of IR, focusing on the pursuit of power and security in an anarchic international system where states are the primary actors. From a realist perspective, Wakanda’s secretive isolationism reflects the principle of self-help, where states prioritize their own survival above all else. By hoarding vibranium and avoiding entanglements, Wakanda ensures its sovereignty and security, a classic realist strategy. T’Challa’s reluctance to engage with the outside world mirrors historical examples like Switzerland’s neutrality, where isolationist policies served as a means of avoiding external threats. Realists would view Killmonger’s desire to use Wakanda’s power to dominate the global system as a dangerous, albeit understandable, strategy to shift the balance of power. His actions could provoke counterbalancing from other states, leading to global instability—a classic realist fear. Ultimately, realism helps us see Wakanda as a state prioritizing its survival, but it also raises the question: can states like Wakanda avoid the risks of global power struggles forever?

Liberalism

In contrast to realism, liberalism emphasizes cooperation, institutions, and shared interests between states. A liberal perspective would criticize Wakanda’s isolationism as a missed opportunity to promote global progress and stability. Liberals would argue that Wakanda’s vibranium could be used to create international partnerships, develop global infrastructure, or strengthen multilateral institutions. T’Challa’s eventual decision to share Wakandan technology with the world aligns with liberal ideals, emphasizing the potential for states to work together to address common challenges. For example, organizations like the United States or initiatives like the Marshall Plan demonstrate how international cooperation can lead to peace and prosperity. From this lens, Killmonger’s approach is seen as a rejection of liberalism, favoring unilateral dominance over collaborative engagement. Liberals would view Wakanda’s transition toward global engagement as a step toward fostering interdependence and reducing conflict, highlighting how cooperation is often more effective than isolation or aggression.

Constructivism

Constructivism focuses on the role of ideas, identities, and social norms in shaping international behavior, arguing that power and interests are not fixed but socially constructed. Constructivists would see Wakanda’s secrecy as rooted in its unique identity as an African state untouched by colonialism, shaping its perception of the outside world as a potential threat. This worldview influences Wakanda’s isolationist policy, as the state seeks to protect its distinct culture and independence. Meanwhile, Killmonger’s ideology reflects a different constructivist narrative: his experiences of systemic racism and oppression in the U.S. shape his belief that Wakanda must intervene to transform global power dynamics. The clash between T’Challa and Killmonger represents a battle of ideas about what Wakanda’s identity should be—protector of its own people or liberator of the oppressed. Constructivism helps us see how the meaning of power and responsibility is shaped by culture, history, and perception, highlighting the importance of identity in international relations.

Marxism

Marxism approaches IR by focusing on class struggle, economic exploitation, and the global division of labor. From a Marxist perspective, Black Panther is a critique of global inequality and the legacy of colonialism. Wakanda’s vibranium represents immense economic potential, but its isolation means that wealth is hoarded rather than used to challenge the exploitative structures of the global capitalist system. Killmonger’s vision aligns with Marxist ideas, as he seeks to redistribute power and resources to oppressed peoples, directly challenging imperialist systems. His methods may be violent, but they expose the stark inequalities that Marxists argue are at the heart of global conflict. Wakanda’s eventual decision to share its resources could be seen as a step toward addressing these inequalities, but Marxists might critique it as reformist rather than revolutionary. By focusing on economic power and exploitation, Marxism offers a lens for understanding not only Wakanda’s choices but also the broader context of global injustice.

Feminism

Feminist IR theory highlights the role of gender and power dynamics, often critiquing traditional theories for ignoring the contributions and experiences of women. In Black Panther, feminism is visible in the central roles played by Wakandan women, such as Shuri, Nakia, and Okoye, who demonstrate political, technological, and military leadership. Feminists would view Wakanda as a model for rethinking power structures, where women are not marginalized but central to decision-making. Killmonger’s approach, however, reflects patriarchal tendencies, prioritizing domination and violence over collaboration and care. T’Challa’s eventual decision to embrace global engagement is influenced by Nakia’s more inclusive and empathetic vision, showcasing how feminist principles can lead to more ethical and sustainable foreign policy choices. Beyond the film, feminist theory challenges us to consider how international relations might look if power were redefined to include cooperation, equity, and care rather than domination and competition.

By applying realism, liberalism, constructivism, Marxism, and feminism to Black Panther, we see how each theory highlights different aspects of Wakanda’s story and its implications for global politics. Together, these perspectives offer a deeper understanding of the film’s narrative and remind us that international relations is not a one-size-fits-all discipline. Like T’Challa, we are challenged to consider how power, identity, and responsibility intersect in shaping a better world.