The rise of populism and nationalism and its implications for Covid-19 pandemic: A social constructivist perspective

The rise of populism and nationalism has recently become highly observable. It has caused systemic changes in political, social and economic fields. Populist and nationalist political movements achieve varying success around the world. Populist and nationalist discourses, such as anti-immigration and anti-multiculturalism, intensify. Besides, conspiratorial thinking has become prevalent. The rise of populism and nationalism also shows its implications throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. There has been a populist resistance against mask wearing and social distancing. Moreover, several conspiracy theories have been prevalent. Finally, xenophobic and racist incidents take place, and orientalist rhetoric against Asian communities resurfaces. This thesis aims to reach conclusions that will provide a better understanding of the impact of rising populism and nationalism on COVID-19 pandemic with the help of social constructivism. As an idealist theory, social constructivism is convenient for understanding populism and nationalism, identity-related phenomena.