Filling a Void: A Theoretical Model for Populism
摘要
This paper addresses a critical gap in populism studies by developing a theoretical model that explains the core mechanisms underlying populist phenomena. We propose that populists manipulate the political landscape by introducing an overarching 'elite versus masses' dimension. Rather than simplifying the political landscape, populists strategically subordinate existing dimensions—such as economic, cultural, and social issues—within this dominant framework. By doing so, they force an otherwise multi-dimensional political agenda to align with a single dimension, gaining agenda-setting power and constraining the space in which political actors can position themselves. Drawing on winset of the status quo theory and Riker's strategic manipulation, our model demonstrates how this approach enables populists to disrupt existing coalitions, align diverse grievances, and reshape the political agenda by making specific policies or alignments previously considered unfeasible more politically viable. Additionally, we account for the strategic flexibility of populists over time, showing how they adapt their strategies to changing contexts.