The Power of People: An Analysis of Authoritarian and Democratic Populism

Author: Austin Biesty

Field of Study: Undeclared

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 24

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Populism is a significant topic in the world of political science, as it has seen a resurgence in the 21st century and contributed to the rise of some authoritarian-type leaders who have gone on to hollow out democracy in their own countries. This project seeks to analyze populism itself to determine whether it can be a benefit, or at least non-destructive, to liberal democracy in the modern day, or if it is doomed to devolve into authoritarianism. The analysis of populism will include case studies from populists and their associated movements throughout the past and present of the United States, as well as those in modern Europe. Analysis thus far indicates that populism is not always destructive and could possibly be constructive in the context of modern liberal democracy when it does not reject political pluralism. If true, then populism could potentially help defend against authoritarianism in certain contexts.