What to Do? Carry on Fighting

Abstract

‘Common-sense’ action is the most visible outcome of the identification process. Projects such as the building of a border wall are symbolically charged ways of restoring a simpler and purer nation. Such actions are necessary, not least because populist and fundamentalist narratives have stoked up powerful emotions which have to be expressed. Their main chance of success lies in their refusal to play by the elite rules of the game, seeking instead to gain control by techniques of subversion and shock. Failure can be explained in terms of the overwhelming and conspiratorial power of the elites. In the long-term absence of success, these movements have to maintain conflict. Otherwise, the survival of their identity, and hence of the very selves of their adherents, is at stake. Sometimes, populists and fundamentalists collaborate in the struggle, as in the case of Netanyahu and Israel.