Diagonalism in online populist discourse: Left moving right
The Centre for Applied Linguistics hosts Professor David Block (Pompeu Fabra University) in conversation at the launch of his new book.
Diagonalism in online populist discourse: Left moving right
26 May 2026, 17:00 – 19:00
David Block (author and Honorary Professor of Sociolinguistics at Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona) joins us in conversation with Dr Karin Zotzman (University of Southampton) and Professor John O’Regan (UCL Institute of Education).
The discussion will explore themes in Professor Block’s recently published book, Diagonalism in Online Populist Discourse: Left Moving Right (2026).
In the book, David Block analyses populist discourse and homes in on ‘diagonalism’ – the subtle migration of left-wing commentators toward right-wing positions on pandemic policies, free speech and immigration. The text provides a vivid insight into today’s fractured political arena, where progressive voices are increasingly aligning with far-right narratives.
This event will be particularly useful for researchers and students.
Related links
- Centre for Applied Linguistics Research Seminars Series
- Centre for Applied Linguistics
- Department of Culture, Communication and Media
Image: Adobe Stock/Microgen.
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