Populism of Critical Discourse (A Critique of Criticism as a Promotional Discourse in Contemporary Arab Culture)

Abstract

This research examines the "populism of critical discourse" and its direct impact on trends in meta-criticism (criticism of criticism) as a prominent manifestation of cognitive and methodological lag in the literary arena, particularly within contemporary Arab criticism. The study stems from a fundamental problem: the retreat of various forms of meta-criticism from their rigorous, foundational, and analytical roles, devolving into emotional practices dictated by the shifting whims of readers. This shift is primarily driven by the pursuit of media controversy and viral reach across digital platforms and modern social networks.

​          Consequently, the researcher focuses on deconstructing the manifestations of this populism and delineating its operational mechanisms in the cultural sphere. The paper demonstrates how these shifts have transformed criticism from an intellectual and cognitive act—focused on deconstructing texts and interpreting their deep dimensions—into a mere circulated discourse dominated by superficial pleasantries, celebrity culture, and reader demands at the expense of academic rigor and critical consciousness.

​          Furthermore, the research draws upon a selection of applied examples and illustrative case studies to embody the phenomenon of populism within the contemporary critical scene, providing an objective evaluation of its impact. Ultimately, the study issues a sharp warning regarding the epistemological risks of this phenomenon, underscoring the necessity for meta-criticism to reclaim its authentic evaluative and aesthetic functions and to enforce rigorous methodological standards based on strict cognitive systems to counter any erosion of criticism's scientific value.