Mindless Consumption, Dehumanisation, Class Division under Capitalism, and The Walking Dead

How undead/zombies represent consumerism, dehumanisation under capitalism, class oppression, and fear of overconsumption in gothic literature and modern media

➣ My thesis aims to study modern media’s idea of undead (or more commonly known, zombie) themes and their criticism of social and economic structures, while unravelling societal moral dilemmas. Specifically how those figures serve as symbolism reflecting consumerism, dehumanisation under capitalism, class oppression, and the fear of overconsumption. Zombies exemplify mindless consumption under capitalist societies and highlighting the human fear of losing individuality and the growing gap between social classes. Specifically portraying the oppressed lower class who, in their “monstrous and undying hunger” challenge established societal norms and order. Specifically in the television show The Walking Dead.