"Rather than relying on defensible theoretical positions, or engaging in a dialectical process of debate and critique to further the theoretical development of left ideas, the new left populism does not have any concern for inconsistencies and theoretical mistakes. Rather, it wins arguments by appealing to popular superstitions and myths, and by appealing to popular discontent with easy answers. It doesn’t worry about the difficulty of delivering on its promises as long as the promises win adherents. Above all else, this is what makes it populism. It is also the trait it has most in common with Trumpism.

This essay examines and challenges some of the core mythology at the center of the left economic-populist project. It then lays out some possible political implications of the critiques."