Conference presentation: "Populism and Conspiracy Theory: Two Distinct Phenomena"

PACT

Universität Tübingen

Conspiracy Theories and Leftwing PopulismAcademic Conference, 10-12 March 2022Grigoris MarkouAristotle University of Thessaloniki

Populism and Conspiracy Theories: Two Distinct Phenomena

Abstract

In recent years, it has been developed a debate about the possible connection between populism and conspirational logic. There are many scholars who believe that populism is linked to conspiracy theories in most cases, while there is a part of themwho argue that populism is equated with the populist phenomenon. It is true that populism is often associated with conspirational thinking. But are conspiracy theoriesan exclusive prerogative of populists? In this presentation, I highlight the discussionthat takes place in academia and public sphere on the connection between conspiracytheories and populism, aiming to highlight their distinct character.

Keywords:

discourse analysis; populism; conspiracy theories; conspirational thinking; academia.