Illiberal Politics in Neoliberal Times
Culture, Security and Populism in the New Europe

"Mabel Berezin’s brilliant new book offers a subtle but penetrating explanation for the rise of right-wing populist movements in wealthy nations. The imposition of neoliberal models of economic development requires elites to renegotiate the social contract between citizens and the state, thereby creating a climate of insecurity and vulnerability that nationalist politicians exploit to win elections and gain power. Her insightful analysis reveals that neo-fascist, anti-immigrant movements are not just blind expressions of ancient prejudices, but sociologically predictable consequences of a globalizing world order." - Douglas S. Massey, Princeton University

"The study of contemporary European politics has been sorely missing a cultural perspective. Berezin brilliantly fills this gap, simultaneously providing a subtle and provocative explanation for the contrasting influence of right populism in different countries and contributing new concepts and methodological tools for the analysis of political phenomena." - Juan Díez Medrano, University of Barcelona

"Despite the abundant literature on right wing parties, Mabel Berezin provides an original and innovative analysis of why, after a long period of obscurity, right wing populism unexpectedly appeared in Western Europe in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and, more specifically, why the French National Front (FN) has enjoyed continued success well into the 21st century.... Berezin should be commended for an original study and for the strength of her rich analysis of French politics, history, and culture. The historical and narrative approach , and the analysis of events allow the author to demonstrate the wiser and the broader significance of the FN." - Canadian Journal of Sociology

"A very interesting book to read" - e-Extreme, Newsletter of the ECPR Standing Group on Extremism & Deomocracy

"...this work is clearly an important contribution to the field and one that brings fresh ideas to a decades-old debate. The book is to be highly recommended." - Journal of Common Market Studies

"At first glance, the argument that neoliberalism has generated an antidemocratic and illiberal political climate seems convoluted. Berezin (Cornell Univ.) removes all confusion with a clearly researched and authoritative account of how Europe has changed...The historical analysis is rich and sophisticated." - CHOICE, A.R. Brunello, Eckerd College

"...an engaging analytical narrative..." -Geoff Eley, The Journal of Modern History