What term describes a leader who gains power by appealing to emotions and prejudice?

The term that describes a leader who gains power by appealing to emotions and prejudice is demagogue. This term is associated with individuals who manipulate public sentiment through rhetoric that stirs strong emotional responses, often by playing on fears, biases, and passions rather than relying on rational argument or factual evidence. Demagogues typically present themselves as champions of the common people, often by vilifying opponents and creating an "us versus them" mentality.

This approach can be particularly effective in political contexts, where emotions can drive decision-making more strongly than logical reasoning. Historical examples abound where demagogues have risen to power by exploiting societal divisions and discontent, illustrating the potential dangers of such leadership styles.

In contrast, the other terms do not relate to this context of leadership: a denizen refers to an inhabitant or occupant of a particular place, dereliction pertains to neglect or failure to fulfill a duty, and a dervish often refers to a member of a Sufi religious order known for their whirling dances as a form of meditation. Thus, demagogue is clearly the term that describes the specific nuances of emotional appeal and prejudice in leadership.