populism
UK: ˈpɒpjʊlɪzəm | US: ˈpɑːpjʊlɪzəm
n. A political approach that strives to appeal to ordinary people, often by contrasting them with a perceived elite.
n. The policies or principles of a movement claiming to represent the interests of the common people.
The term populism emerged in the late 19th century, derived from the Latin populus (people). It originally referred to political movements advocating for the rights of the common people against elite dominance. The suffix -ism transforms it into an ideology, emphasizing its doctrinal nature. The word retains its core focus on "the people" while adapting to various political contexts over time.
The candidate’s speeches were filled with populism, promising tax cuts for the working class.
Critics argue that populism often oversimplifies complex economic issues.
The rise of populism in Europe has challenged traditional party systems.
Some view populism as a reaction to globalization and inequality.
Historians compare modern populism to the agrarian movements of the 1890s.