Dados is one of the most widely-read social sciences journals in Latin America. Created in 1966, it publishes innovative works, originating from academic research, by Brazilian and foreign authors. Edited by IESP-UERJ, it aims to reconcile scientific rigor and academic excellence with an emphasis on public debate based on the analysis of substantive issues of society and politics.
Dados vol. 58 n. 2 Rio de Janeiro abr./jun. 2015
Abstract
This article assesses the emergence of competitive elections in Brazil after the fall of the 'New State'. The main goal of the text is to demonstrate that the independence of electors - the freedom to vote - is not a necessary condition for the emergence of competitive elections. To this end, it is suggested that the adoption of the secret vote did not entail significant changes in electoral practices, as the political elites remained in control of the behavior of voters. In order for elections to become competitive it is essential that different political groups are capable of mobilizing electors to carry out and win elections. To this end, the government ought to lose control of electoral enrollment.
Keywords: democratization, elections, competition, mobilization, vote
Making Voters and Elections: Political Mobilization and Democracy in Brazil in the post-New State Period
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