DSPO 27A09 - Populism: the political trajectory of a controversial concept

Various leaders, political parties and movements that take a radical stand against the status quo claiming to do so on behalf of “the people” are often being labeled as populists. Nevertheless, the frequent but rather puzzling object of the political and social sciences we designate “populism” has always been a controversial concept. Heretofore, it would seem “populism” has imposed itself as an indispensable subject for political thought today, even given that the term often floats from one meaning to another and that it is frequently reduced to a pejorative usage. Instead of trying to solve the complex epistemological impasse described above, this course will introduce the main issues related to the concept of populism by exploring its polemical and political aspects. In order to do so, we will review the concept's theoretical construction through the years, as well as how it is presently characterized. The main purpose of this course is to change the representations on this subject by exploring diverse theoretical frameworks and historical experiences so that students can develop a critical understanding of the phenomena.

Felipe LINDEN

Séminaire

English

Autumn 2021-2022

• Group discussions (40% of the grade): quality of the collective reflexion in group, conclusions and notes; • Final take-home essay (50% of the grade): 1,5000/2,0000-word essay (Further information will be provided throughout the seminar); • Engagement and participation in the course (10% of the grade): student's own research, participation on debates, questions and commentaries.