The Age of Discontent:
Populism, Extremism, and Conspiracy Theories in Contemporary Democracies
David O. Sears Best Book in Mass Politics,
International Society of Political Psychology
​
Since the financial crisis of 2008, populism and various forms of extremism have risen up to challenge democracy around the world. Surprisingly, the most successful such movements have focused on cultural grievances, rather than on economic discontent.
​
In this book (with Rachel Navarre and Steven Utych), we argue that economic trauma induces sustained emotional reactions, especially anger and anxiety, that led millions of people to become susceptible to culturally reactionary and politically antidemocratic narratives. Using this approach, we explore the rise of populism in the North Atlantic (US, UK), Europe (Spain), and South America (Brazil, Chile).
The findings presented in this book have troubling implications for the long-term compatibility of liberal democracy and free-market neoliberalism. They imply that democratic states must renew their commitment to social regulation of markets and to serve as conduits for citizen voice if democracy and market economies are to survive.
Endorsements for The Age of Discontent
​
"This landmark study is essential reading for anyone who seeks to understand contemporary populist challenges to liberal democracy." - Kenneth Roberts, Cornell University
​
"...an important contribution that substantially advances our understanding of the drivers of the support for populism...a rigorous and far-reaching exploration of how disparate grievances become assembled thereby gaining political weight." George Marcus, Williams College
​
Reviews of Age of Discontent
​
Barbara Schmitter Heisler, Political Psychology
​