Does right-wing populism have some traditional left-wing ideas?

Like (qualified) opposition to the free-market, anti-establishment tendency and anti-war. This always seemed strange to me how neo-con people could seemingly change their ideology over a few years.

I'm interested in the responses from both left and right. I'll be polite to all those who do likewise. :-)

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

fazer1k · 56-60, M

Where British conservatives are concerned I believe they feel tethered by political correctness (and so they should be as PC is about treating people decently and not discriminating) and by European legislation. When we no longer have protection from Europe and ultimate jurisdiction available through the European court, I don't trust conservatives to continue to support the less fortunate or any other, traditional left wing causes. Conservatives do largely support the free market, I think, and I suspect they would privatize the NHS if they could get enough support to do so. So I would say, yes, they play the populism game including traditionally left wing approaches when they have to but will attempt to steer away from that as soon as the chance arises.

Burnley123 · 41-45, M

@fazer1k I agree with you on this. Also, the NHS is being privatised by stealth. More outsourcing happens every year and whatever the rhetoric, they want it in private hands.