THE FAR RIGHT ACCORDING TO NORBERTO BOBBIO AND CAS MUDDE

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the far-right from the theoretical contributions of Norberto Bobbio and the empirical analyses of Cas Mudde. Bobbio provides a conceptual foundation regarding the distinction between left and right, highlighting the relation to equality and the risks that extreme positions may pose to democracy. Mudde, in turn, characterizes the populist radical right through the triad of nativism, authoritarianism, and populism, offering an analytical framework to understand its presence and influence in contemporary democratic systems. The research is qualitative and bibliographic, based on the reading, interpretation, and critical articulation of these authors’ works, as well as complementary studies on the far-right and populism. The analysis shows that the far-right represents a radicalization of traditional right-wing positions, characterized by the reinforcement of hierarchies, the challenge to democratic institutions, and the strategic use of populism as a political mobilization tool. The articulation between Bobbio and Mudde allows for an understanding of both the ideological foundations and concrete manifestations of this phenomenon, providing a critical interpretation of the challenges posed to contemporary liberal democracies. It is concluded that understanding the far-right requires not only a conceptual analysis but also an examination of the political strategies that ensure its relevance and social impact, highlighting the importance of institutional and educational measures that strengthen democracy, pluralism, and human rights.