An attempt to define populism) Cover Image

Définir le populisme: une tentative
An attempt to define populism)

Author(s): Robert Adam
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics
Published by: Editura Institutul European
Keywords: populism; definition; political theory; people; democracy; elites;

Summary/Abstract: Trying to define populism, an elusive concept, has discouraged many scholars overtime. Some of them (e.g. Canovan) devised comparative typologies of populism, where some postulated populisms were validates as such, while others were not, according to one or several discriminating criteria. The only common ground that all attempts to define populism share is the mobilisation of people against the elites. We have striven to reach a new definition, by integrating elements from other social scientists. In order to achieve this goal, we have proceeded by consecutive stages. Firstly, we have made an inventory of some previous efforts in the field of populism studies. Secondly, we have drafted the definition. Finally, the meaning of all the terms included in the definition has been explained, in order not to allow for ambiguities. Looking into the nature of populism, scholars alternatively described it as an ideology, a movement or a political style. We prefer to envisage it as a discourse, following Ernesto Laclau. Also, the relationship of populism to time (according to Jaguaribe or Hermet) is a central element of our definition, which comprises three parts. The opposition between people and elites finds its place into our attempt. Finally, we demonstrate that all included elements are necessary to the definition.

  • Issue Year: VIII/2020
  • Issue No: 1(27)
  • Page Range: 57-72
  • Page Count: 16
  • Language: French