Articles by Paul D. Kenny

November 20, 2025

🌊 The nature of fascism and why it differs from populism

Paul D. Kenny

People are talking more and more about fascism, and often confusing it with populism. Paul D. Kenny argues that we need to understand how fascism stands out. It has never been just a matter of words or beliefs. It is a leader-centred cult that uses violence to eliminate opposition

🔮 The myth of the irrational populist

Paul D. Kenny

Scholars and pundits – few of whom are populist supporters themselves – like nothing more than to point out the seeming foolishness of populism. However, Paul Kenny argues, there is also frequently a rational explanation behind their choices. Populist voters may be a lot of things, but they are not irrational

Paul D. Kenny

Professor of Political Science, Institute for Humanities & Social Sciences, Australian Catholic University / Visiting Fellow, Australian National University

Paul is one of the world's leading experts on populism.

He holds a PhD in political science from Yale University and degrees in economics and political economy from Trinity College Dublin and the London School of Economics.

He is Professor and Director of the Political Science Program at ACU and lives in Melbourne, Australia.

pauldkenny.com

@kennypd.bsky.social

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