rightlust

Rightlust is a neologism used to describe an attraction, fascination, or aesthetic enthusiasm for right-wing political ideas, imagery, or figures. The term is a portmanteau of "right" (referring to conservative or right-leaning politics) and "lust" (denoting intense desire), and it appears mainly in informal and online contexts rather than formal political science literature.

Usage of the term varies. Some people use it descriptively to characterize aesthetic trends—such as stylized uniforms, symbols, or rhetoric—while others employ it pejoratively to criticize what they see as an uncritical romanticization of right-wing politics. It is often applied in discussions of social media, fashion, and pop culture where political aesthetics intersect with identity and attraction.

Manifestations associated with the concept can include the fetishization of authority, idealization of national or traditional imagery, or the glamorization of controversial public figures. Commentators who use the term typically focus on symbolic and cultural expressions rather than detailed policy positions, and they may point to social and psychological factors like group identity, novelty-seeking, or reaction against perceived mainstream culture.

Critics argue that using the label can oversimplify complex political motivations and risk trivializing serious ideological commitments. Supporters of the term say it highlights how aesthetics and emotion can shape political engagement. Because "rightlust" is informal and context-dependent, its meaning can differ significantly between speakers and communities.