Populism
A political approach that frames politics as a struggle between "the people" and a corrupt or out-of-touch elite.
Explanation
Populism is a political style or ideology that pits "the ordinary people" against "the establishment" or "the elite." It can appear on both the left (Hugo Chávez, Bernie Sanders, Podemos) and the right (Donald Trump, Viktor Orbán, Marine Le Pen). Populist leaders typically claim to represent the authentic will of the people against corrupt institutions, media, or political classes. Populism is not a full ideology — it's a thin-centered approach that attaches to other ideologies. Critics argue populism can undermine democratic institutions, demonize minorities, and oversimplify complex issues. Defenders say it gives voice to legitimate grievances ignored by mainstream politics.