A delicate ballet, politics is full of profound implications with every move and posture. One dance stands out as part of this global performance: the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). It is impossible not to recall the echoes of a bygone era when a similar dance culminates in one of humanity’s darkest eras when observing these maneuvers.
The rise of right-wing populist parties like the AfD in Germany sparks debates about their similarities to historical movements such as the Nazi Party. These parties have been studied using theories such as Mudde’s definition of populism as a thin-centered ideology based on splitting society into a ‘pure people’ and a ‘corrupt elite’. Researchers have also compared the AfD with the Nazi party.
In psychological studies, scholars such as Hetherington & Weiler (2009) and Jost, Stern, Rule, & Sterling (2017) have demonstrated that personality traits and cognitive styles shape political orientations. According to research, people with high levels of authoritarianism, a need for certainty, and sensitivity to perceived threats are more likely to support right-wing populists.
Mouffe (2005) and Laclau (2005) bravely explore the intricate labyrinth of right-wing populism in a world where political ideologies collide and democracy hangs in the balance. In addition to stimulating intellectual discourse, their profound philosophical perspectives illuminate the profound implications of this phenomenon for democratic principles.
Political, economic, and societal tumult propelled the Nazi Party’s rise to power during the early 20th century. The repercussions of the Treaty of Versailles in the wake of WWI evoked outrage among Germans, opening the door for radical beliefs. Adolf Hitler’s magnetic persona fomented nationalistic fervor, preparing the ground for a dictatorial government that perpetrated some of humanity’s vilest acts (Shirer, 1960).
Germans still feel the reverberations of this past today. Germany has taken significant steps to confront its grim past following World War II, enshrining a commitment to democratic principles and minority rights in its constitution. To prevent such a totalitarian regime from returning (Fulbrook, 2015), societal structures and institutions have been established.
The AfD, the other hand, echoes the anti-immigration and nationalist rhetoric of the Nazis, yet operates within a very different social and political environment. (Berbuir et al., 2015) Germany’s robust democratic institutions and a population overwhelmingly committed to democratic norms prevent extremism from spreading.
From a sociological lens, the AfD’s rise can be understood as part of a broader trend toward right-wing populism in Europe and beyond (Betz, 1994). Globalization and technological progress can drive societal change at breakneck speed, creating feelings of dislocation and unease. These sentiments are often exploited by right-wing populist parties (Rydgren, 2008), offering a nostalgic vision of an easier, more homogeneous past that appeals to those marginalized by social change.
In the AfD’s case, it’s anti-immigration stance and nationalist discourse resonate with a portion of the German populace that perceives a threat to their cultural identity. However, Rydgren (2008) explains that adopting such rhetoric doesn’t necessarily mean the populace endorses far-right ideologies.
It is alleged that psychological foundations add another layer of complexity to our understanding of political attitudes. (Hetherington & Weiler, 2009; Jost et al., 2017) Researchers claim that individuals who exhibit a high degree of authoritarianism, a need for certainty, and sensitivity to perceived threats are more inclined to support right-wing populist parties.
There is a possibility that individuals with these psychological traits would be attracted to the discourse of the AfD, which emphasizes perceived threats from immigration and the failures of the ‘corrupt elite.’ However, let’s not jump to conclusions; psychological predispositions influence political attitudes rather than determine them outright (Hetherington & Weiler, 2009).
Furthermore, we cannot ignore the philosophical aspects surrounding the rise of the AfD, which create complex ethical and moral dilemmas. On one side, critics argue that the party’s anti-immigration and nationalist rhetoric potentially threatens democratic values, notably equality and respect for diversity (Mouffe, 2005).
Theorists argue that populist movements reflect genuine dissatisfaction with political elites and existing power structures and are a form of democratic expression (Laclau, 2005). Engaging in ongoing dialogue and critically examining their profound philosophical and moral dilemmas is necessary to adequately navigate these conflicting viewpoints.
Some suggest that to cultivate a safe and egalitarian future for Germany, opposing the growth of fascism and antisemitism is essential. It is argued that studying the nuances of right-wing politics and recognizing recurring themes can provide a clear vision of current affairs. However, not everyone agrees; skeptics may wonder if taking action has any impact and whether we are doomed to repeat prior errors, as history frequently demonstrates.
