A demagogue /ˈdɛməɡɒɡ/ (from French demagogue, derived in turn from the Greek demos = people/folk and the verb ago = carry/manipulate thus peoples manipulator) or rabble-rouser is a political leader in a democracy who appeals to the emotions, fears, prejudices, and ignorance of the lower classes in order to gain power and promote political motives. Demagogues usually oppose deliberation and advocate immediate, violent action to address a national crisis; they accuse moderate and thoughtful opponents of weakness. Demagogues have appeared in democracies since ancient Athens. They exploit a fundamental weakness in democracy: because ultimate power is held by the people, nothing stops the people from giving that power to someone who appeals to the lowest common denominator of a large segment of the population.
Posted on: Mon, 27 Oct 2014 11:17:39 +0000
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