Left populism and socialism today

What is the course about?

Populism is often seen today as a phenomenon pertaining to the far-Right. This course will bring some contrast to this view by looking at ‘Left populism’ in its historical perspective but also in its contemporary manifestations, as well as in its relations to the socialist project.

We will analyse the similarities and differences between socialist politics and populist politics from a historical perspective, and critically observe parties and new movements on the Left today and how we can understand their political project in terms of socialism and populism.

We will be asking whether left populism can represent a new strategy for socialist politics to address their current challenges and what issues does that strategy encounter.

What will we cover?

- Definitions of populism
- Historical perspective on populism
- Similarities and differences between populism and socialism throughout the 19th and 20th centuries
- The revival of populism as a strategy for the Left in the 1980s – with a focus on Latin America
- The contemporary challenges of socialist parties and the general state of the socialist project from the 1980s onwards
- The rise of Left populism in the 2010s in Europe (notably in Greece, Spain, France and Germany) and the US
- The current challenges to Left populism and socialism (2020s).

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Distinguish right-wing populism from left-wing populism
- Explain the historical developments of populism and the role it played on the Left
- Understand some of the key strategical debates on the Left at the turn of the 21st century
- Analyse the socialist character of Left Populist politics and parties today.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is at an introductory level and is suitable for those new to the subject as well as those who have some familiarity with the topics to be covered. A good grasp of English to keep up with the course and participate fully is necessary. As with most of our history and politics courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will run in person and use a combination of lectures, backed by PowerPoint presentations, and discussions in large and small groups. Material to prepare the discussions will be available on the course website, and will include short extracts from key authors on Left populism and on its place within socialist politics as well as newspapers pieces on various case studies we will be studying.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional costs. You may wish to bring pen and paper or a digital equivalent for notetaking.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

- HPC141: Looking beyond headlines: colonialism and contemporary conflicts.