240028 VS Neo-nationalism and the new right (3.3.1) (2020S)

This course will introduce students to the recent contributions within socio-cultural anthropology and kindred disciplines, devoted to the subject of neo-nationalism and radical right-wing activism. Having begun with a discussion on the terminology, historical context and methodological approaches to radical right, we will proceed to an analysis of recent socio-political developments and tackle a variety of topics, including: grassroots mobilization vis-a-vis political parties; violence; discourses on religion, sexuality, “culture,” heritage; right-wing imaginary and symbolism; branding and material culture; local and transnational activism. We will also interrogate the reasons behind far-right appeal, inquiring into various contexts of the new right upsurge, different socio-economic realities (including various “posts”: postindustrial, postcolonial, postsocialist ones), the role of historical narratives in shaping far-right activism, as well as the question of the “mainstreaming” of far-right ideas. An overarching question for all these discussions will be that of the agency of the actors involved.

As the course puts a strong emphasis on comparison, we will draw cases from numerous contexts around the world and we will reflect on similar developments on the left side of the political spectrum. In addressing issues which lie at heart of current debates well beyond the academia, the course will allow space for discussion of the most recent developments. In discussing them, we will reach for conceptual apparatus and comparative insights from the literature discussed in the class. Last but not least, we will devote a lot of time to discuss ethical aspects of studying right-wing (and, for that matter, any political) radicalism.