Populism and the Erosion of Democracy
Harvard Extension School
GOVT E-1116
Section 1
CRN 27069
What is populism and how much of a threat is it to democracy? The recent rise of authoritarian-populism, across both long-established and developing democracies, has posed new challenges for good governance. This course explores the conditions for the rise of populism, evaluates how much of a threat it poses for democracy, and examines the different forms it takes. Topics include the role of economic grievances, immigration trends, civic culture, electoral rules, and party competition. We examine these topics through a range of comparative country cases including the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Hungary, Turkey, the Philippines, and India.
Registration Closes: January 22, 2026
Credits: 4
View Tuition Information Term
Spring Term 2026
Part of Term
Full Term
Format
Live Attendance Web Conference
Credit Status
Graduate
Section Status
Open