The Democratic Regression: The Political Causes of Authoritarian Populism

Populism is often downplayed in public debate due to the inadequacies of those who vote for populist leaders and parties. Armin Schäfer and Michael Zürn argue that the rise of authoritarian populism is rooted in the unequal responsiveness of parliaments towards less privileged citizens and the growing political role of non-majoritarian institutions. This perception of contemporary democracy as lacking openness and representativeness leads to citizens voting for authoritarian populists, who damage democracy rather than solving its problems.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 225 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

The tendency in public debate to diminish the significance of populism by attributing its rise to the inadequacies of those who vote for populist leaders and parties is a misguided approach that hinders our understanding of the underlying factors contributing to the phenomenon. This way of thinking prevents us from recognizing that the rise of populism can be linked to problems and shortcomings in the way our democracies function.

In their insightful book, Armin Schäfer and Michael Zürn delve into the complex dynamics driving the rise of authoritarian populism. They argue that this phenomenon is rooted in two political developments: the unequal responsiveness of parliaments to the needs of less privileged citizens and the growing political influence of non-majoritarian institutions, such as central banks and international organizations, that bypass public debate and entrust decisions to experts.

Contemporary democracy is increasingly perceived as lacking openness and representativeness, leading to a growing sense among citizens that politics is controlled by a closed political class that is disconnected from the concerns of ordinary people. This perception, coupled with the belief that authoritarian-populist parties can address these concerns more effectively, drives more individuals to support these parties.

While contemporary populists may seek to undermine liberal democracy, their responses often fail to address the core issues of democratic politics. Instead, they often exacerbate the problems they purport to solve, resulting in damage to democracy rather than its expansion or reduction of existing inequalities.

It is crucial to approach the study of populism with a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the political, social, and economic factors that contribute to its rise. By recognizing the shortcomings of our democracies and addressing the concerns of ordinary citizens, we can work towards creating more inclusive and responsive political systems that promote the well-being and prosperity of all.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 138 x 217 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509558773