Reclaiming Populism: How Economic Fairness Can Win Back Disenchanted Voters

Populist upheavals are caused by economic unfairness, with opportunity not equal and reward not according to contribution. This book proposes a framework of policy inputs to support high social mobility and diagnose the differing reasons behind economic unfairness in the US, UK, Italy, and France.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2021
Publisher: Polity Press

Populist upheavals such as Trump, Brexit, and the Gilets Jaunes arise when the system is rigged, causing widespread anger among citizens worldwide. While income inequality and immigration may be factors, the root cause of this frustration lies in economic unfairness. The opportunity is not equal, and the reward is not commensurate with the contribution.

In their forensic book, Protzer and Summerville delve into original research, cited by the United Nations and the International Monetary Fund, to establish that illiberal populism thrives when success is influenced by family origins rather than talent and effort. They propose a framework of policy inputs that prioritize high social mobility and apply it to diagnose the differing reasons behind economic unfairness in the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, and France. By striving for a fair, socially mobile economy, they argue, it is possible to craft a politics that addresses the legitimate grievances behind populism.

Reclaiming Populism is a crucial read for policymakers, scholars, and citizens who aim to reconcile disenchanted populist voters with the principles of liberal democracy. The book offers valuable insights and practical solutions to address the challenges posed by populism and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509548125