Elif Başak Ürdem is a PhD candidate in Political Science, focusing on the relationship between meritocracy, social justice, and the rise of populism in liberal democracies. Her research examines how the belief in meritocracy, combined with educational inequalities, fuels populist
Meritocratic Hubris and the Populist Surge: Unraveling Structural Dynamics in European Democracies
Başak’s research explores the relationship between meritocratic beliefs and the rise of populism in liberal democracies, focusing on the role of structural inequalities in shaping political dynamics. Central to the research is the concept of "meritocratic hubris," which examines the overreliance on meritocracy while failing to address the educational inequalities that perpetuate it. The research investigates how this dynamic influences the subjective social status of low-skilled individuals and contributes to populist sentiments. Using multilevel modelling and cross-sectional analysis, Başak examines the impact of meritocratic beliefs and access to education on societal hierarchies and political behaviour in European democracies. The study aims to understand how cultural and economic inequalities affect moral equality among individuals, particularly in relation to meritocracy and equality of opportunity. This interdisciplinary research combines political theory with empirical analysis to address key societal challenges such as representation and social cohesion. By providing insights into the structural factors that drive populism, the work contributes to the broader discourse on the role of meritocracy in contemporary political systems and the implications of rising inequality in liberal democracies. Başak’s research ultimately seeks to enhance understanding of the complex interplay between societal structures and political behaviour, offering valuable perspectives for both academic inquiry and policy development.
PGR Supervisors: Anthony Kevins and Simone Varriale