Demagoguing: meaning, definitions and examples
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demagoguing
[ ˌdɛməˈɡɔɡɪŋ ]
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.
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
Etymology
The term 'demagogue' originated from the ancient Greek word 'demagōgos', meaning 'leader of the people'. It combines 'demos' (people) and 'agōgos' (leader or driver). Initially, it referred to leaders who sought to appeal directly to the masses, often by emotive or manipulative tactics. In classical Athens, demagogues emerged as figures who could rally the populace against established authorities, manipulating public sentiment to achieve their ends. Over time, the term evolved and took on a negative connotation, associated with deceitful and inflammatory rhetoric. In modern contexts, demagoguing can be seen in various political movements where leaders prioritize gaining popularity over honest governance, echoing the tactics of historical demagogues.