Research on Populism and Political Polarization in France

Abstract

In recent years, populism has risen rapidly worldwide, especially in many European countries. Populism in France is the most typical example in Europe, which has impacted the existing order of the European Union. From the perspectives of historical origin, domestic structure, external environment, and realistic conflicts, this paper focus on the French populist party National Front (FN) and explores the nature and motivation of populist political polarization based on the theory of supply and demand. The extreme dissatisfaction of societys middle and lower classes is the root cause of populist political polarization. Economic instability and voters distrust of mainstream politics have fueled populism. Populist parties use various tools, including polarized discourses, ideologies, and leaders unique political personalities, to drive voters toward extremes. The refugee issue has driven populism into a fanatical far-right, posing a challenge to Western democracy and the EU order. Finally, this paper discusses the influence and significance of the current populism in French society.