legittimano

Legittimano is a neologism used in Italian political and media discourse to describe a person or actor who seeks to legitimize a political claim, policy, or status by appealing to legitimacy rather than to legality alone. In common usage, it is often employed critically to denote a rhetorical strategy that aims to confer moral or normative authority through tradition, consent, or proceduralism, while downplaying democratic scrutiny, accountability, or ethical considerations.

Etymology and usage context: the term is derived from legittimo (legitimate) and the suffix -ano, which forms adjectives and nouns. It does not have a formal entry in major dictionaries or formal political-theory taxonomies and is predominantly encountered in online discussions, opinion journalism, and some think-tank commentary rather than as an established academic category.

Usage and connotations: legittimano is typically applied to political figures, movements, or institutions that frame their power as legitimate by citing constitutional procedures, historical continuity, or popular consent, even when legality or compliance may be contested. The label is often used in debates about referendums, recognition of governments, or secessionist movements, where supporters claim a mandate while critics challenge the grounds of legitimacy.

Reception and assessment: critics view legittimano as a value-laden label that signals normative judgment and can obscure substantive evaluation. Proponents may argue that legitimacy is a political necessity that transcends technical legality and that ethical concerns require considering broader consent and legitimacy beyond mere legality. See also legitimacy and political legitimacy.