Christian F. Rostbøll's book *Democratic Respect: Populism, Resentment, and the Struggle for Recognition* offers a comprehensive analysis of populism, exploring why people support populist leaders and parties, and the validity of their demands in a democratic context. Rostbøll defines populism as a set of propositions centered on the antagonism between the people and the elite, with a zero-sum logic and democratic legitimacy based on recognizing a part of the people as the true majority. He categorizes these propositions into three themes: the characteristics of politics, the logic of politics, and the requirements for democratic legitimacy. Rostbøll focuses on right-wing populism, which has seen significant growth in Western Europe and the United States. He argues that the rise of populism is closely linked to the sense of *irrespect* experienced by many in society and the political system. Populist parties and leaders articulate the frustrations and resentment of those who feel marginalized, offering them a positive social identity and respect for their views. However, Rostbøll differentiates between *estima* (recognition based on merit) and *respeto* (recognition based on status), suggesting that some support for populism stems from a loss of privileged status rather than a lack of recognition for achievements. The book critiques the polarizing nature of populism, which presents only two options: either full acceptance of the lifestyle of the "people" or being labeled as an enemy. This binary approach undermines the possibility of respectful dialogue and the recognition of diverse viewpoints. While some academics argue that populism can serve as a corrective to democratic flaws, Rostbøll contends that it promotes a form of conflict that illegitimates dissent and disagreement. He concludes that populism should not be seen as a legitimate form of participation, as it threatens the democratic system. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the nature of populism, the reasons for its appeal, and its implications for democracy, making it essential reading for scholars, civil society members, and non-populist politicians.Christian F. Rostbøll's book *Democratic Respect: Populism, Resentment, and the Struggle for Recognition* offers a comprehensive analysis of populism, exploring why people support populist leaders and parties, and the validity of their demands in a democratic context. Rostbøll defines populism as a set of propositions centered on the antagonism between the people and the elite, with a zero-sum logic and democratic legitimacy based on recognizing a part of the people as the true majority. He categorizes these propositions into three themes: the characteristics of politics, the logic of politics, and the requirements for democratic legitimacy. Rostbøll focuses on right-wing populism, which has seen significant growth in Western Europe and the United States. He argues that the rise of populism is closely linked to the sense of *irrespect* experienced by many in society and the political system. Populist parties and leaders articulate the frustrations and resentment of those who feel marginalized, offering them a positive social identity and respect for their views. However, Rostbøll differentiates between *estima* (recognition based on merit) and *respeto* (recognition based on status), suggesting that some support for populism stems from a loss of privileged status rather than a lack of recognition for achievements. The book critiques the polarizing nature of populism, which presents only two options: either full acceptance of the lifestyle of the "people" or being labeled as an enemy. This binary approach undermines the possibility of respectful dialogue and the recognition of diverse viewpoints. While some academics argue that populism can serve as a corrective to democratic flaws, Rostbøll contends that it promotes a form of conflict that illegitimates dissent and disagreement. He concludes that populism should not be seen as a legitimate form of participation, as it threatens the democratic system. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the nature of populism, the reasons for its appeal, and its implications for democracy, making it essential reading for scholars, civil society members, and non-populist politicians.