Description
This module offers an in-depth study of far-right politics in contemporary France. It starts by mapping out the origins and different strands of thought within the French far right, and assesses whether it forms a consistent political ideology. The course concentrates on the Rassemblement National (formerly known as Front National), the most successful far right party in France. It also studies Éric Zemmour’s rise and assess the brand of far-right politics that he represents. We will study the RN’s main political features; its sociological transformation over time, notably from the mid-1980s up to now.
Other aspects of the study include: sociology of party membership and electorate, and main policies and ideas. The module eventually addresses topical issues such as: is the RN still a “far right” party or has it morphed into a mainstream party of the “national right”? Are RN policies compatible with the French constitution and republican polity? Is it pertinent to label the RN a “populist” or “national populist” party?
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.