The Evolution of 'Radical Chic': From Tom Wolfe to Italian Political Slur

The phrase 'radical chic,' introduced by Tom Wolfe in 1970, initially referred to affluent leftists who championed progressive issues while indulging in luxury. In contemporary Italy, it has transformed into a derogatory term for proponents of tolerance and multiculturalism, often paired with 'buonista.' This article examines its shift within Italian political discourse, especially regarding migration. In July 2018, Libera, under Don Luigi Ciotti's leadership, called for the wearing of red T-shirts to honor drowned migrant children, facing accusations of 'radical chic' from right-wing populists. The 2017 album 'Comunisti col Rolex' by J-Ax and Fedez satirized these contradictions. Controversy also arose from a Mauro Biani cartoon and Oliviero Toscani's Benetton campaign. By July 21, 2018, Umberto Mastropietro's 'Radical Chic' merchandise had generated over €1,720 despite harassment from far-right factions.