1 July 2024
Populism can oblige the great, formerly silent, majority to choose between two opposing camps with little middle ground in between for rational debate.
Why is Populism on the March?
1. Introduction
Populism is gaining traction as it often encourages simplistic thinking and forces the silent majority to choose between two opposing camps, with minimal room for rational debate. This essay delves into the factors driving the rise of populism, explores its core principles, and examines its impact on liberal democracy.
2. Understanding Populism
To comprehend the rise of populism, it is essential to recognise that many of us might identify as populists. This self-awareness can provide deeper insights into why populism is gaining momentum. Populism, at its core, is not necessarily compatible with liberal democracy. Liberal democracy values pluralism, acknowledging the diversity of ideas and political ideologies, and believes in the voice of the majority while respecting the rights of the minority. This framework fosters tolerance and equality under the law.
3. Defining Populism
3.1 Us vs. Them
A populist, as explained by Ryan Chapman, views the world through a lens of "us and them." They claim to speak for "We the People," a group defined in a narrow sense that excludes those who do not align with their views. The "them" typically refers to the elites, perceived as corrupt and self-serving. Populists argue that the elites either harm the people or prevent them from achieving their goals. For instance, in the context of immigration, immigrants may be seen as a secondary adversary, with the true "them" being the elites responsible for immigration policies.
3.2 Moral Division
Populists frame the elites as morally corrupt and the people as virtuous and wise. Their legitimacy stems from a moral stance rather than numerical majority, allowing them to claim moral superiority even without broad support. This moral division simplifies complex societal issues into a battle between good and evil, leaving little room for nuanced debate.
3.3 Supremacy of People's Views
Populists argue that the people's views are paramount, opposing any cooperation with the elite. This combative stance reinforces their position and justifies their resistance to compromise. Given this adversarial role, populists find it difficult to accept challenges to their viewpoints, often resulting in a "thin" ideology that is bolstered by additional "-isms" like nationalism or socialism.
4. Populism's Impact on Liberal Democracy
Populism's intolerance for opposing views and its simplistic approach to complex issues pose significant challenges to liberal democracy. While it claims to champion the people's interests, its rejection of pluralism and tendency towards authoritarianism can undermine democratic institutions and processes.
5. Tendencies of Populist Movements
5.1 Removing Intermediaries
Populists prefer direct communication with their followers, bypassing traditional political institutions and parties.
5.2 Externalising Blame
Populists rarely accept responsibility for failures, often attributing them to the actions of others.
5.3 Conspiracy Theorising
Populists frequently resort to conspiracy theories, blaming hidden elite machinations for their problems.
5.4 Stress Testing Institutions
Populists test the strength of existing institutions and seek to alter them to consolidate their power, often reshaping constitutional frameworks and judicial systems to their advantage.
6. Explaining the Rise of Populism
The rise of populism can be understood through a combination of economic, political, social, and cultural factors:
6.1 Economic Inequality and Insecurity
Growing income inequality and economic insecurity have left many feeling disenfranchised. The perceived benefits of globalisation favour international elites, leaving ordinary people struggling. Populists exploit these sentiments, promising to redress economic imbalances.
6.2 Political Disillusionment
There is widespread disillusionment with the political establishment, seen as corrupt and ineffective. The military-industrial-congressional complex, uncontrolled immigration, and the subversion of democratic processes, such as Brexit, have further fuelled this discontent. Populists position themselves as the voice of the common people, rejecting the status quo.
6.3 Rapid Social Change
Rapid technological and societal changes create a sense of cultural threat. The failure of multiculturalism to integrate societies and form a cohesive national identity exacerbates this anxiety. Populists appeal to nostalgia for a bygone era of cultural homogeneity and traditional values, promising to restore these lost ideals.
7. Conclusion
Populism thrives by exploiting economic disparities, political disillusionment, and social anxieties. While it may offer a compelling narrative for those feeling left behind, its simplistic worldview and rejection of pluralism pose significant risks to liberal democracy. Despite its appeal, populism's divisive nature underscores the need for a more inclusive and cooperative political approach.
8. Recap
We must acknowledge that while populism offers an easy solution, it is not the answer. Democracy, despite its flaws, remains the best way to reconcile diverse views and promote equality. The challenge lies in addressing the underlying issues that fuel populism, ensuring that democracy works for everyone, and maintaining a commitment to pluralism and tolerance.
Lastly, there is hope. Social media is gradually eroding the elite's monopoly on power, allowing for a more diverse and democratic dissemination of ideas. However, this must be balanced with a commitment to factual information and respectful discourse to avoid further polarisation.
