Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

2-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Program

Political Science

Advisor

Richard Wolin

Committee Members

Jack Jacobs

Benedetto Fontana

Subject Categories

American Politics | International Relations | Political Theory

Keywords

Right-Wing Populism, Political Myth, Extremism, Authoritarianism, Replacement Theory, Nationalism, Conspiracy Theories, Political Violence, Radicalization, Nativism

Abstract

This body of research analyzes the enduring impact of political myth in nationalist populism and extremist movements. The rise of Western nationalist parties and acts of terror in the early 21st century gave life to this project. The manuscript advances two theories regarding political myths and their relationship to far right radicalism. First, nationalist myths—sprawling political worldviews whose dogmatic tenets are resistant to empirical critique and rational refutation—function as ideological constructs. They fictionalize the causes of events and serve to recruit adherents to authoritarian causes. Myths are continually reworked to address factual inaccuracies, failed predictions, and evolving social developments, while maintaining a consistent core narrative. Second, myths arise in response to the failures of procedural democracy to realize egalitarian ideals and promote the citizen identities that underwrite democratic theory. The study employs a discourse analysis informed by Theodor Adorno and other Frankfurt School thinkers' response to the 20th century's authoritarian demagogues, demonstrating their continued relevance to studies in nationalist extremism and democratic critique. Finally, the project concludes with policy and pedagogical recommendations aimed at producing a rational and authentically democratic citizenry.

This work is embargoed and will be available for download on Sunday, February 01, 2026

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