Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>At first glance, “populism” and “democracy” appear to be two completely different concepts, but a closer look reveals that the boundaries between them are often blurred. Given the recent rise of populist movements in Europe and around the world, understanding the intricate relationship between populism and democracy is of huge importance. Populism is usually perceived as a form of “extreme” or “overextended” democracy that has become detached from its basic principles. However, constructing a theoretical framework that positions populism as an ideology in its own right is fraught with challenges. Therefore, this article argues that populism is rather a structural defect inherent to democratic systems. By analyzing the ambivalences and contradictions of democracy, as well as its potential for self-destruction, it can be shown that the distinction between a positively connoted democracy and a negatively connoted populism cannot be maintained. Ideologically, they rather represent two sides of the same coin, with populism emerging as a “pathological normalcy” within a democratic framework. Nonetheless, this ideological proximity should not downplay the dangers that populism poses to democracy. While both concepts advocate popular sovereignty, populism undermines the deliberative discourse being essential for democratic governance.</jats:p>