Populism Ancient and Modern

Course NamePopulism Ancient and Modern
Course CodePHI405 / PHI605
DescriptionThe aim of the course is to recall the historical roots of the ambiguous term 鈥減opulism鈥�, with an emphasis on the original link between populism and democracy, which is its condition. The starting point will be the Greek form of democracy and its critique, including Plato鈥檚 diagnosis of those who wish to win the admiration and love of 鈥渢he people鈥�. Using various texts, it will thus be necessary to clarify not only the term demos (people) itself, but also who the 鈥渄emagogues鈥� actually were. Connections to discussions of contemporary populism will offer us not only this narrower question, but also a more general consideration of the importance of personal charisma in the history of populism. In this context, we will also consider the difference between populism with ideology and populism without ideology.
Learning OutcomesUpon completion of this course, students should be able to:
– understand the main features of contemporary populism and its historical origins together with its association with democracy;
– compare contemporary democracy with its ancient counterpart, including the critical perspectives;
– analyze and interpret various texts in political philosophy from different periods;
– explore contemporary discussions surrounding populism.
SchoolSchool of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
LevelBA / MA
Number of credits (US / ECTS)3 US / 6 ECTS