Choosing the Right Symbols: Brothers of Italy and League's Mobilization of Traditional Worldviews against Modernity

This dissertation investigates the relationship between modernity and traditionalist political movements in Italy, with a focus on the symbolic mechanisms used by far-right parties to challenge the perceived negative aspects of modernity. Central to this analysis are the parties Brothers of Italy (Fratelli d’Italia, FdI) and the League (Lega), which mobilize traditional symbols and values in response to societal issues such as moral decay, economic instability, and identity crises, often seen as by-products of modern life. The thesis begins by presenting a theoretical foundation for understanding modernity, grounded in the work of key sociologists like Durkheim, Weber, and Giddens. It defines modernity as a period characterized by rationality, secularism, and individualism, but also marked by anomie—a breakdown of social norms and values. The discussion then highlights how traditionalism emerges as a response to the existential disorientation that modernity can induce, offering a sense of stability and meaning. Religion and tradition are depicted not merely as relics of the past, but as enduring sources of collective identity and moral guidance that continue to influence contemporary politics. The core of the dissertation analyzes the rhetoric and strategies of the Brothers of Italy and the League, focusing on how they use traditional symbols to attract electoral support. These symbols—ranging from religious motifs to nationalist myths, slogans and images such as the the Italian family and the Christian cross —are designed to resonate with voters who feel alienated by modern, secular, and individualistic values. The symbols serve not just as markers of identity but as instruments of political mobilization, simplifying complex social issues into emotionally charged narratives. The parties advocate for a return to an idealized past, using symbols to draw a sharp distinction between "authentic" Italian values and the threats posed by globalization, immigration, and liberal social policies. Nevertheless, the thesis argues that this symbolic rhetoric ultimately fails to resolve the deeper structural problems of modernity. While such symbols provide a temporary sense of cohesion and belonging, they lack substantive content and are often contradictory, failing to offer realistic solutions to the crises they critique. The vagueness inherent in these symbols allows them to be interpreted flexibly, but this same ambiguity limits their effectiveness in addressing the challenges they critique. The conclusion reflects on the broader implications of this symbolic politics. It suggests that while traditional symbols may offer emotional solace to those disenchanted with modernity, they cannot fully counterbalance the forces of rationalization, secularization, and individualism that define contemporary society. The dissertation thus contributes to understanding how far-right populist movements harness tradition to confront the challenges of modernity but also exposes the limitations of this approach in providing sustainable solutions to an increasingly complex world.