Democracy's Resilience to Populism's Threat

‘When do populists destroy democracy? In this nuanced and incisive analysis, Kurt Weyland argues that populist governments erode democracy only under specific conditions. This is a welcome and innovative intervention to an important debate.’ Anna Grzymala-Busse, Michelle and Kevin Douglas Professor of International Studies, Stanford University

‘In this magisterial study, Weyland analyzes when and how democracies withstand the threat of populist authoritarianism. Weyland’s comprehensive analysis is a must-read for all those interested in the prospects for democracy around the world - including for students of American politics who will see recent US experiences set in global perspective.’ Frances Lee, Professor of Politics and Public Affairs, Princeton University

‘Many scholars assume that populism is a threat to democracy, but rarely do they specify how severe that threat is, or the conditions under which it is more or less likely to prove fatal to democracy. Kurt Weyland tackles that challenge in this ambitious and path-breaking book. Weyland compares populist leaders in thirty countries across Europe and Latin America to develop a theory of democratic resilience in the face of populist challenges. He demonstrates that most democratic regimes are capable of withstanding populist threats, and these threats are only likely to bring about democracy’s demise under a restrictive set of conditions. This book is essential reading for anyone concerned about democracy’s fate in the modern world and it offers critical insights for those seeking to identify the nature and sources of democratic resiliency.’ Kenneth M. Roberts, Richard J. Schwartz Professor of Government, Cornell University

‘This book is a thought-provoking and nuanced reexamination of the threat populist politicians pose to democracy. It should be of great interest to scholars and policy practitioners alike.’ Amanda B. Edgell, Journal of Peace Research

‘An original, thorough, and must-have analysis, carefully written with extensive references … Highly recommended.’ A. Siaroff, Choice

‘This book presents a tantalising, divergent approach to studying populism’s perceived threat to liberal democracy. … Weyland’s book provides a cerebral, extensive, and optimistic analysis of the current condition of liberal democracy and its struggle against populist attempts to take it apart. He offers a positive, sanguine view of democracy’s resilience, contradictory to current trends presented in the media and academic circles.’