Abstrakt
This chapter discusses populism in relation to illiberalism and argues that while a critical position towards liberalism (in particular liberal legalism) and a sceptical stance vis-a'-vis liberal constitutionalism are common features of populism, this does not mean that populism ought to be understood in straightforward, Manichean terms as the pure opposite of liberal democracy and constitutionalism. Rather than taking a dichotomic approach, various expressions of the relation between populism and liberalism ought to be considered and analysed.
In the chapter, I will first discuss the current debates on populism and constitutional democracy, suggesting that empirical, rather than purely normative assessment is of important value for understanding the phenomenon of populism. Following this, I will engage with the notion of 'illiberal democracy', and make the case, contrary to some observers, that there is some heuristic value in the notion.
Subsequently, I will first discuss rightwing, conservative forms of populism and their relation to liberalism, and, second, engage with leftwing populism and its critique, but also its endorsement of liberalism and liberal democracy.