Populism and Democracy

This is a combo of three titles, which are: - Populism vs. Liberalism: Political ideologies form the foundation of how societies organize governance, economics, and social structures. They are systems of ideas and beliefs that provide a framework for political thought and action, influencing policies, institutions, and the behavior of individuals and groups. Among the diverse range of ideologies, populism and liberalism have emerged as two of the most significant and often opposing forces in modern political discourse. This chapter introduces the concepts of populism and liberalism, highlights their importance, and sets the stage for the comparative analysis that follows. - The Populist Playbook: Populism, as a political ideology and movement, is rooted in the idea of a fundamental divide between "the people" and "the elite." It asserts that the common people, often portrayed as hardworking and morally upright, are being oppressed or ignored by an elite class of politicians, businessmen, and intellectuals who are perceived as self-serving and out of touch with the needs of the general public. The term "populism" has evolved over time and can be used to describe a range of political movements and leaders who claim to represent the interests of the ordinary person against established powers. - The Impact of Populism: The roots of populism stretch back to the 19th century, with early movements advocating for the empowerment of ordinary citizens, particularly in agricultural societies. However, the modern manifestation of populism began to take shape in the mid-20th century and accelerated in the 21st century, fueled by growing disillusionment with traditional political elites. The rise of social media, economic inequality, and a globalized world have all contributed to populism's recent resurgence, particularly in Western democracies.