Demagoguing: meaning, definitions and examples
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demagoguing
[ˌdɛməˈɡɔɡɪŋ ]
Definition
political discourse
Demagoguing refers to the act of using emotional appeals and manipulative rhetoric to gain power or support, often by exploiting people's fears and prejudices. This approach is frequently employed in political settings, where leaders seek to persuade the public through sensationalism rather than reasoned arguments. Demagogues often focus on creating a stark division between 'us' and 'them', which can lead to social unrest and polarization. By appealing to base instincts and emotions, demagoguing undermines rational discourse and can distort democratic processes.
Synonyms
agitating, exploiting, manipulating.
Examples of usage
- The politician was accused of demagoguing during the election.
- Rather than discussing policy, he resorted to demagoguing to rally his supporters.
- Her speech was filled with demagoguing tactics aimed at inciting fear among voters.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from the Ancient Greek word 'demagogos', meaning 'leader of the people'.
- Demagoguery has been a strategy seen throughout history, particularly in times of crisis when leaders manipulate emotions to gain support.
Political Science
- Effective demagogues often use persuasive language that resonates with their audience’s fears and hopes.
- They tend to oversimplify complex issues, making them easier for their supporters to understand but often misleading.
Media Influence
- In modern times, demagoguing has become more prominent with the rise of social media, which allows direct communication with the public.
- Television and online platforms can amplify demagogic messages, reaching larger audiences quickly.
Psychology
- Demagoguery often plays on cognitive biases, exploiting the 'fear of loss' where people react more strongly to losing something than gaining something.
- Charismatic figures can create a 'groupthink' environment, where followers start to believe in a shared, often extreme, perspective.
Examples in History
- Figures like Adolf Hitler and Joseph McCarthy are often cited as classic examples of historical demagogues who exploited people's fears for their gain.
- More recently, political rhetoric around issues like immigration and globalization has revealed demagogic tactics in various political campaigns.
Translations
Translations of the word "demagoguing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 demagogia
🇮🇳 जनता का नेता बनना
🇩🇪 Demagogie
🇮🇩 demagogi
🇺🇦 демагогія
🇵🇱 demagogia
🇯🇵 デマゴーグ
🇫🇷 démagogie
🇪🇸 demagogia
🇹🇷 demagojilik
🇰🇷 민주적 선동
🇸🇦 ديماغوجية
🇨🇿 demagogie
🇸🇰 demagógia
🇨🇳 煽动主义
🇸🇮 demagogija
🇮🇸 demagógía
🇰🇿 демагогия
🇬🇪 დემაგოგია
🇦🇿 demagogiya
🇲🇽 demagogia