The Collapse of a Class Alliance: An Analysis of the Brazilian Political Crisis

By Luiz Carlos Bresser Pereira

Introduction

In his book "The Collapse of a Class Alliance," Luiz Carlos Bresser Pereira provides a comprehensive analysis of the political crisis in Brazil. Pereira argues that the crisis is the result of the collapse of a class alliance that has been in place since the 1930s. This alliance, which included the industrial bourgeoisie, the agricultural bourgeoisie, and the urban working class, was based on a shared commitment to economic development and social progress. However, in recent years, this alliance has come under increasing strain due to a number of factors, including the rise of neoliberalism, the decline of the manufacturing sector, and the increasing inequality.

The Rise of Neoliberalism

One of the key factors that has contributed to the collapse of the class alliance in Brazil is the rise of neoliberalism. Neoliberalism is a political and economic ideology that emphasizes the importance of free markets, deregulation, and privatization. These policies have had a devastating impact on the Brazilian economy, leading to increased inequality, unemployment, and poverty.

The Decline of the Manufacturing Sector

Another factor that has contributed to the collapse of the class alliance is the decline of the manufacturing sector in Brazil. The manufacturing sector has traditionally been a major source of employment for the urban working class. However, in recent years, the manufacturing sector has been in decline due to a number of factors, including the rise of China as a global manufacturing hub and the increasing automation of production.

Increasing Inequality

Finally, the increasing inequality in Brazil has also contributed to the collapse of the class alliance. Inequality in Brazil is among the highest in the world, and it has been increasing in recent years. This inequality has led to a growing sense of resentment among the urban working class, who feel that they are not sharing in the benefits of economic growth.

The Collapse of the Class Alliance

The collapse of the class alliance in Brazil has had a number of consequences. One consequence is the rise of political instability. In recent years, Brazil has experienced a series of political crises, including the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff and the election of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro. Another consequence of the collapse of the class alliance is the increasing polarization of Brazilian society. Brazilian society is now deeply divided along class, racial, and regional lines.

Conclusion

In "The Collapse of a Class Alliance," Luiz Carlos Bresser Pereira provides a powerful analysis of the political crisis in Brazil. Pereira argues that the crisis is the result of the collapse of a class alliance that has been in place since the 1930s. This alliance, which included the industrial bourgeoisie, the agricultural bourgeoisie, and the urban working class, was based on a shared commitment to economic development and social progress. However, in recent years, this alliance has come under increasing strain due to a number of factors, including the rise of neoliberalism, the decline of the manufacturing sector, and the increasing inequality.

Pereira's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the political crisis in Brazil. It is a powerful and insightful analysis of the challenges facing Brazil and the prospects for the future.