
Populism, Ideology and Discourse in the Global South
Lisa Zanotti
Contact: Zanotti-AnderloniL(at)ceu.edu
Assistant Professor, Diego Portales University, Santiago, Chile
Research project
Echoes of Division: Decoding Polarizing Rhetoric and ‘Double Othering’ Strategies of Radical Populist Leaders
This research project examines the dynamics of populist discourse across the political spectrum, focusing on the dual processes of ‘double othering’ and the utilization of polarizing rhetoric by populist leaders. It aims to explore how ideological and psycho-linguistic patterns linked to radical and populist movements create a divisive worldview, affecting societal cohesion and democratic integrity. The project will analyze the different discursive strategies used by right-wing populists, who often contrast ‘ordinary’ citizens against a ‘corrupt elite’, and Populist Radical Left movements that maintain a people-versus-elite narrative while promoting inclusivity. Employing an innovative methodological approach that leverages Large Language Models (LLMs) to analyze unstructured discourse, this study will uncover deeper insights into the rhetorical strategies and emotional appeals utilized by these figures. By examining the linguistic and psychological tactics through which populism challenges democratic norms, this project aims to offer fresh insights and propose strategies to mitigate populism’s negative impacts on society. Through detailed analysis and the development of counter-narratives, the research seeks to foster democratic resilience and social harmony, contributing to the broader dialogue on addressing the challenges posed by polarizing populist rhetoric.