Politics Quote by Robert O. Paxton
““An interlocking set of new enemies was emerging: globalization, foreigners, multiculturalism, environmental regulation, high taxes, and the incompetent politicians who could not cope with these challenges. A widening public disaffection for the political Establishment opened the way for an “antipolitics” that the extreme Right could satisfy better than the far Left after 1989. After the Marxist Left lost credibility as a plausible protest vehicle when the Soviet Union collapsed, the radical Right had no serious rivals as the mouthpiece for the angry “losers” of the new postindustrial, globalized, multiethnic Europe.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Politics of the Extreme Right, Robert O. Paxton, 2004
The quote describes how globalization, multiculturalism, and other modern pressures created a sense of loss among many, leading to disaffection with mainstream politics and the rise of an anti‑political sentiment that the radical right exploited after 1989.
In simple terms: Modern changes sparked anger, pushing people toward radical right parties.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how economic and cultural anxieties can fuel extremist politics.
Themes
political change
populism
globalization
identity
economic anxiety
Mood
anxious
critical
analytical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- community organizing
- policy debates
- media analysis
Key Concepts
social theory
political realignment
cultural conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- How do economic policies influence political radicalization?
- What role does media play in shaping anti‑establishment sentiment?
A Different Perspective
The analysis may overstate the uniformity of “losers” and ignore left‑wing movements that also address grievances.
