The podcast explores the growing popularity of populism in Europe, analyzing its history, impact on democracy, and comparisons to Trump's populism. It delves into the demographics of populist party voters, examining factors such as education, class, and gender. The UK's connection to the populist wave, particularly in the context of Brexit, is also discussed. Additionally, the podcast explores the constraints faced by populist parties in implementing policies and the limitations of populism as a whole.
Populism is a thin-centered ideology that can be attached to different ideologies and is driven by a division between corrupt elites and the pure people.
The rise of populism is influenced by economic challenges, cultural anxiety, and the failure of mainstream parties to provide alternatives, with support cutting across the social-economic spectrum but with education level and gender playing a role in differentiating supporters.
Deep dives
Defining Populism
Populism is a worldview that sees societies divided into two homogenous groups: the corrupt elites and the pure people. Populist leaders rally against the corrupt elite and advocate for the expression of the general will of the people in politics. Donald Trump's rhetoric is an example of right-wing populism, as he presents himself as the voice of the people against the political establishment.
Differentiating Left and Right Populism
Populism can be attached to different ideologies, making it a thin-centered ideology. Left-wing populism tends to direct its attack towards capitalists, bankers, and multinational companies, often in response to the financial crisis. Right-wing populism targets both the established institutions that limit the will of the people and those who do not belong to the nation, such as immigrants and international organizations.
Factors Contributing to Populist Rise in Europe
The rise of populism can be attributed to three broad factors. First, it is a response to economic challenges like the financial crisis and declining living standards. Second, cultural anxiety arising from rapid societal changes, especially in terms of immigration and multiculturalism, plays a role. Lastly, the failure of mainstream parties to provide viable alternatives and address concerns empowers populists who promise a change from the conventional political system.
Understanding Populist Voters
Populist voters are not restricted to a specific socioeconomic group. While some might assume that only economically disadvantaged individuals vote for right-wing populists, research shows that support for populism cuts across the social-economic spectrum. However, education level is a significant differentiator, with those without university degrees more likely to vote for radical right-wing populists. Gender also plays a role, as men tend to be more supportive of right-wing populism than women.
Across Europe the radical right is making progress and winning elections. To understand why, Rachel and John speak to Professor Sara Hobolt from the London School of Economics.