demagog
Noun: A demagog is a political leader who gains support and power by exploiting the emotions, prejudices, and desires of the common people, rather than by using rational arguments or factual evidence. Such a leader often makes false promises and uses inflammatory rhetoric to stir up public feeling.
The word "demagog" is used to describe a specific type of charismatic but manipulative political figure. It carries a strongly negative connotation, implying deceit and the dangerous exploitation of public sentiment.
Examples: * The historian warned that the nation was vulnerable to a demagog who would promise simple solutions to complex problems. * He was accused of being a demagog for using fear and nationalism to rally his followers. * The speech was pure demagog rhetoric, designed to anger the crowd rather than inform them.
- "To demagog" (verb, less common): The act of behaving like a demagog; using demagogic tactics.
- The senator chose to demagog the issue instead of engaging in a substantive policy debate.
- Demagogue: This is the more common and standard spelling of the word. "Demagog" is a variant.
- Demagogic (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a demagog.
- His demagogic appeals were effective but deeply irresponsible.
- Demagoguery (noun): The methods or practices of a demagog; political activity that appeals to prejudice and emotion.
- The campaign was marked by outright demagoguery.
- Rabble-rouser: A person who stirs up the emotions or prejudices of a crowd.
- Firebrand: A person who is passionate about a particular cause, often in a way that provokes trouble or unrest.
- Populist (can be neutral or negative; in a negative sense, it overlaps with demagog): A person who claims to represent the interests of ordinary people against an elite.
- To play to the gallery: To seek to win approval by appealing to popular taste or opinion, often in a simplistic or emotional way. This is a related concept, though less severe than demagoguery.
- The politician's simplistic slogans were clearly an attempt to play to the gallery.
- a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular passions and prejudices