Abstract
In this chapter, the authors delve into the intricate world of populism, a political phenomenon that has reshaped global politics. This exploration begins with a comprehensive definition of populism, tracing its roots from historical emergence in American politics to its global manifestations. They dissect the key characteristics that define populist movements, emphasizing their appeal to the common people against the established elite. The chapter further examines populism's interaction with other political ideologies and movements, offering a nuanced understanding of its impact on contemporary political landscapes. Special attention is given to the rise of populism in the era of Donald Trump, analyzing how his leadership exemplifies and deviates from traditional populist traits. This scholarly inquiry aims to provide a balanced perspective, understanding populism not just as a political strategy, but as a reflection of deeper societal undercurrents.
TopIntroduction To Populism
The term 'populism' has become one of the most debated and complex notions within political discourse and academic study. With its roots firmly planted in the late 19th-century American political environment, populism has since traversed continents, ideologies, and historical epochs, adapting and evolving in its applications and perceived implications. Rogers Brubaker (2017) characterizes populism as a “discursive and stylistic repertoire” utilized across various substantive and ideological domains, crystallizing as a reaction against perceived elite malpractices and as an advocacy mechanism for the 'common people' (Brubaker, 2017).