Digital populism in Iraq: the case of Muqtada al-Sadr

Abstract

ABSTRACT This contribution aims to examine the extent to which a populist political style can break through the established structures of a religious hierarchy using authority in the field of politics. Citing the example of the digital communication of the Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, it will be argued that al-Sadr is assuming functions beyond his relatively low theological rank through an authority gained in the political field via populism. The paper explores not only the interplay of different logics of authority but also how far al-Sadr´s populism differs, due to his specific role as a politicizing Shiite cleric, from other forms of populism.