Speaking Rights to Populism? Using Emotion as the Language of Values

Abstract Since 2016 a series of unexpected developments such as Brexit and the shock election Donald Trump have drawn attention to rise populism one most significant phenomena in today’s political world. This populist ‘explosion’ is widely regarded threat democracy human rights, particularly rights minorities. So how should movement best respond? Speaking special issue theme on meaning challenges this article advances an argument for claims-makers learn ‘lessons from populism’ terms its emotional appeal. Part 1 reviews scholarly literature phenomenon radical right date, including co-option language by far right. 2 builds identify weaknesses legalistic way that (political) claims are advanced argues constructivist perspectives may help ‘speak to’ populism. The final part further research into emotions ‘language values’ put empirical conceptual flesh bones more ‘constructivist’ view rights.