Identify elements and characteristics of different kinds of populist movements, with a special focus on Italy. Examine how such movements impact both the national and international political context and the potential risks they pose to democracies. Populism is one of the distinctive developments of 21st century politics. This course studies Italy as a crucial laboratory of different manifestations of populism. Populism already figured prominently in Italian politics in the early 1990s, and has only grown in prominence, currently in the unique experience of populists in government. Topics include the Italian political and constitutional system, political parties, populist movements, EU membership, and an in-depth analysis of the current populist turn in Italian politics.
Department: Political Science
Location: Florence
Semesters: Fall, Spring
Credits: 3