Europe's Populist Condition - by Emmy Eklundh

Book Synopsis

Challenging the notion that populism is an anomaly in European politics, this book argues that the main threat to democracy is the exclusionary nature of European democratic traditions.

Drawing on decolonial studies, feminist theory, psychoanalysis, and democratic theory, the book reveals how liberal democracy in Europe promotes a fantasy of equality while its politics enacts the exact opposite. By exposing these injustices, the book makes a bold case: populism is not our main problem (or solution), but simply another facet of the ills of liberalism. The book is essential reading for understanding the future of democracy in Europe.

Review Quotes

'Eklundh is uncompromising in her use of the critical fantasy lens to reveal how Europe's colonial legacy continues to exert a pernicious gravitational pull on its benevolent self-image that even progressive left-populists struggle to escape. Eklundh advances the frontiers of populism studies by making a bold case for the systematic incorporation of a critical decolonial perspective.' Jason Glynos, University of Essex

'Emmy Eklundh is one of the most exciting and original scholars in the field of populism and this book does not disappoint. Eklundh pushes boundaries and forces us to question and rethink existing, comfortable paradigms. A must read for anyone seriously concerned about the political predicament we find ourselves in.' Aurelien Mondon, University of Bath

'Europe's Populist Condition connects liberalism, populism and decolonial studies in a highly original way, with deep relevance for contemporary politics.' María Esperanza Casullo, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile

About the Author

Emmy Eklundh is Senior Lecturer in Politics at Cardiff University.