Overview

In this incisive and timely book, David Block analyses populist discourse and homes in on 'diagonalism' – the subtle migration of left-wing commentators toward right-wing positions on pandemic policies, free speech and immigration. The text provides a vivid insight into today's fractured political arena, where progressive voices are increasingly aligning with far-right narratives. In this post-truth world, we see how emotions trump facts and spectacle dominates substance. The attention economy has transformed political discourse into entertainment, with devastating consequences. More than just academic theory, this book is an urgent warning about how diagonalists provide cover for extremist ideologies while appearing moderate. By exclusively criticizing progressive positions, they unwittingly strengthen the far-right forces already dominating our online spaces. Vital reading for scholars and students of political communication and essential for anyone concerned about the alarming transformation of public discourse in our digital age.

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9781041028390

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Reviews

""In this fascinating study, David Block scrutinizes one of the most peculiar political phenomena of our time, diagonalism. Situating the latter within wider post-truth politics, Block’s critical discourse analysis both highlights the degrading effects of diagonalism on public debate and issues a powerful warning. Highly recommended!"" Bernhard Forchtner, Associate Professor, University of Leicester

Author Information

David Block is Honorary Professor of Sociolinguistics at Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona. He is author of Innovations and Challenges in Identity Research (Routledge, 2022) and Interviews in Applied Linguistics: Autobiographical Reflections on Research Processes (Routledge, 2024).

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