Contrasting representations of ‘the elite’ in Swiss populism: a comparative study of left-wing and right-wing populism

Author(s) : Mariman Mabrouk, Christian Staerklé

Source (book) : https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003492276

Source (book chapter) : https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/oa-edit/10.4324/9781003492276-11/contrasting-representations-elite-swiss-populism-mariman-mabrouk-christian-staerkl%C3%A9?context=ubx&refId=c160f6cc-2da4-49a5-a8e0-2458b4cd6f5b

Abstract:

“This study contrasts the representations of ‘the elite’ within the Swiss populist discourse by examining its left-wing and right-wing perspectives. Through 22 semi-structured interviews with right- and left-wing populist voters and activists, this research employs the social representations approach (SRA) to explore how the concept of the elite is constructed and utilised differently across the populist spectrum. The findings reveal three primary functions of representation of the elite by constructing them as (1) abstract systems or specific individuals, (2) sources of unfairness or fear, and (3) tangible realities or dismissible illusions. This differentiation in representation reflects and serves different goals, with implications for understanding how social representations within populist movements are articulated, mobilised, and used to advance their political and ideological agendas. This study supports the classical conceptualisation of the elite by the left as being a systemic issue and by the right as an individualistic one. However, the comparative approach results challenge the central elite–people distinction, illustrating that contextual and ideological factors can lead populist voters to represent the elite in ways that differ from traditional populist portrayals. Overall, this research exposes the various forms that anti-elitism can take, contributing to a more comprehensive view of populist rhetoric and logic.”