demagogy

/'deməgɔgi/

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Explanation of "Demagogy"

Definition: "Demagogy" is a noun that refers to the practice of appealing to people's emotions and prejudices to gain power or support, often in a manipulative way. It usually involves making emotional speeches or promises that may not be based on facts or reason.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, "demagogy" can be analyzed in the context of political theory, exploring how it contrasts with democratic dialogue or rational discourse. It is often associated with populism, where leaders present themselves as speaking for the common people while using emotional manipulation.

Word Variants:

• Demagogue (noun): A person who engages in demagogy. Example: "The demagogue stirred up the crowd with fiery rhetoric."
• Demagogic (adjective): Describing something that relates to demagogy or demagogues. Example: "His demagogic tactics were evident in the way he addressed the audience."

Different Meanings:

While "demagogy" primarily refers to political manipulation, it can also be applied in broader contexts where someone attempts to sway opinions using emotional rather than rational arguments, such as in advertising or media.

Synonyms:

• Populism
• Manipulation
• Emotional appeal
• Rhetorical trickery

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that specifically include "demagogy," you can use related phrases: - "Play on emotions" means to use emotional appeals to influence someone. - "Rally the troops" can imply gathering support using emotional or passionate language.

Summary:

"Demagogy" is a term used to describe a way of persuading people by appealing to their feelings, fears, and biases rather than their reason. It often appears in political contexts but can be used in other situations where emotional manipulation is present.

Academic

Noun

1. impassioned appeals to the prejudices and emotions of the populace

Synonyms

• demagoguery