Participants will get an understanding of how current political discourse is variously affected by the complex phenomenon of populism.Participants will be able to apply linguistic methods and tools to the analysis of populism in political discourse.Participants will develop critical awareness in the analysis of  political discourse.

Theoretical and methodological inputs.Interactive lecture and group work.

In the era of ‘fake news’, political discourse appears to have become more accusatory and polarizing, enhancing new forms of populism.In this seminar, we will approach this complex phenomenon of populism from multiple and integrated perspectives. We will consider its evolution and transformations through time, reflect on its main assumptions, analyze its major features, and focus on representative international examples of populist politicians.Our critical discussions will take into consideration the use of discursive strategies and rhetorical devices that seem to characterize the language(s) of populism as they are used by different political actors (e.g. political leaders, political parties, political movements). This will allow for a better understanding of how language can be used manipulatively in the context of politics.

Information on relevant literature will be provided in class.

participation in class activitiesoral presentation of a selected reading

research topics related to class contents and selected by the students

evaluation of involvementin class activities (including tasks/assignments and discussions)evaluation of oral presentation