Psychology of Populism: The Tribal Challenge to Liberal Democracy

The recent rise of populist politics presents a significant challenge to liberal democracies. This book explores the psychological reasons for the rise of populism, featuring contributions from leading international researchers in psychology and political science. It offers a comprehensive overview of the psychology of populism, covering identity seeking, anger and fear, collective narcissism, grievance, norms, perceptions of powerlessness and deprivation, authoritarianism, nationalism, radicalism, propaganda, and persuasion. The book is divided into four parts, exploring the motivational and emotional factors that attract voters to populist causes, the cognitive features of populist appeals, the offer of a powerful tribal identity and collectivist ideology, and the propaganda tactics used by populist movements. It will be of interest to students, researchers, and applied professionals in psychology and the social sciences, as well as anyone interested in the global rise of populism.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 368 pages
\n Publication date: 19 February 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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The recent surge of populist politics poses a significant threat to liberal democracies. This essential book delves into the psychological roots of populism, featuring insights from renowned international scholars in psychology and political science. Unlike liberal democracies that uphold the principles of individual freedom, autonomy, and rationality, both right-wing and left-wing populism embrace collectivist, authoritarian ideologies reminiscent of our species' evolutionary history and tribal instincts. The book provides a comprehensive examination of the psychology of populism, encompassing various phenomena such as identity seeking, anger, fear, collective narcissism, grievance, norms, perceptions of powerlessness and deprivation, authoritarianism, nationalism, radicalism, propaganda, and persuasion.

The book is structured into four parts. Part I explores the motivational and emotional factors that draw voters to populist causes, as well as the human needs and values that populist movements fulfill. Part II analyzes the cognitive aspects of populist appeals, particularly their emphasis on simplicity, epistemic certainty, and moral absolutism. Part III examines one of the defining characteristics of populism: its ability to offer a strong tribal identity and collectivist ideology that gives meaning and personal significance to its followers. Finally, Part IV delves into the propaganda tactics employed by populist movements, including the role of charismatic leadership, authoritarianism, and nationalism, as well as the use of conspiracy narratives and persuasive strategies.

This captivating and timely book holds immense interest for students, researchers, and applied professionals across various fields. Its insights shed light on the complex dynamics driving populist movements and offer valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges posed by this political phenomenon.

\n Weight: 556g\n
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 27 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367523817\n \n