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The Politics of Impoliteness : An Analysis of Political Discourse and the Adherence to Democratic Norms in the Netherlands

Groen, S.B. (2025) The Politics of Impoliteness : An Analysis of Political Discourse and the Adherence to Democratic Norms in the Netherlands.

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Abstract:Democracies worldwide have faced increasing pressures in recent years, with many experiencing a decline in democratic freedoms and a shift toward authoritarianism. The presidency of Donald J. Trump (2016–2020) reignited global debates on democratic resilience, highlighting the role of democratic norms—mutual toleration and institutional forbearance—as critical safeguards against democratic erosion. Building on the theoretical framework of Levitsky and Ziblatt (How Democracies Die), this study examines the state of democratic norms in the Netherlands following the end of pacification politics. This research investigates how transformations in media and technology have influenced Dutch political discourse and whether key democratic norms have been upheld or eroded over time. By conducting a content and discourse analysis of political statements from two distinct periods (1967–1987 and 2004–2024), this study identifies shifts in the nature and frequency of norm violations. The findings suggest that the rise of social media has not only facilitated broader and faster dissemination of political statements but has also contributed to the fragmentation and polarization of public debate. Politicians, particularly from the political right, increasingly employ polarizing rhetoric and make norm-violating statements outside parliamentary settings.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:89 political science
Programme:European Studies MSc (69303)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/106265
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