Decadent Developmentalism: The Political Economy of Democratic Brazil

Brazil has been caught in a low-level equilibrium since the 1980s due to its commitment to developmentalism, which is sustained by institutional complementarities across economic and political spheres. This book argues that incremental evolution in some institutions has not broken this pattern, leading to decadent developmentalism. Taylor's analysis of institutional complementarities across these five dimensions is relevant to the broader study of comparative political economy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 383 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Brazil stands out prominently in global assessments of large developing economies, yet it has been grappling with a persistent state of low-level equilibrium since the 1980s. This equilibrium is characterized by lackluster growth and pervasive inequality, a situation that has been attributed to the country's enduring commitment to a set of ideas and institutions known as developmentalism. Despite numerous reform efforts, developmentalism has endured due to the interdependence of institutional complementarities across economic and political spheres. This book makes the case that these complementarities have persisted, even in the face of hyperactive reform, as they sustain and drive key actors and strategies that are individually advantageous but collectively suboptimal. While there have been incremental changes in certain institutions, the overall pattern of decadent developmentalism persists, overshadowing systemic transformation.

In order to break new ground, this book delves into the intricate relationship between macroeconomic and microeconomic institutions, as well as patterns of executive-legislative relations, bureaucratic autonomy, and oversight. By examining these five dimensions, the analysis offers valuable insights not only for Brazil but also for the broader study of comparative political economy.

The persistence of developmentalism in Brazil can be traced back to several factors. One of the primary drivers is the country's historical experience with economic instability and poverty, which has led policymakers to prioritize economic growth and development as a means of alleviating social and economic inequality. The adoption of developmentalist policies, such as import-substitution industrialization and state-led infrastructure projects, aimed to promote domestic industry and create jobs, while also attracting foreign investment and promoting economic integration.

However, the implementation of these policies has often been marred by corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability. The concentration of power in the hands of a few elite actors, coupled with weak institutions and limited democratic oversight, has resulted in a system that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term sustainability and social welfare. This has led to a cycle of underdevelopment, where economic growth is driven by unsustainable practices and resources are depleted, leaving behind a legacy of inequality and poverty.

Another factor contributing to the persistence of developmentalism in Brazil is the country's complex political structure. The federal government has limited power over the states, which have their own administrative, economic, and political systems. This has created a fragmented governance landscape, where policies and initiatives are often implemented at the state level, leading to inconsistencies and duplication of efforts. Additionally, the political polarization and fragmentation of the country's electorate have made it difficult for policymakers to forge consensus and implement comprehensive reforms that address the country's complex social and economic challenges.

Despite these challenges, there have been some efforts to address the issues of decadent developmentalism in Brazil. One of the most notable is the implementation of the Bolsa Familia program, which provides conditional cash transfers to low-income families in order to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion. The program has been successful in reducing poverty and improving access to basic services, but it has also faced criticism for its lack of focus on sustainable development and its reliance on government subsidies.

In addition, there have been efforts to promote economic diversification and promote sustainable development in Brazil. The country has been investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, in order to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and promote clean energy production. The government has also implemented policies to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development, such as the Programa Nacional de Desarrollo Rural (PNDR), which aims to improve the quality of life for rural communities and promote sustainable land use practices.

However, these efforts have faced challenges as well. One of the primary challenges is the lack of coordination and collaboration between different levels of government, as well as between the public and private sectors. This has led to a fragmented approach to policy implementation, where different initiatives and programs are implemented in isolation, without a clear strategy or vision for sustainable development. Additionally, there are concerns about the impact of foreign investment and globalization on Brazilian society and the economy, particularly in terms of job loss, inequality, and environmental degradation.

In conclusion, Brazil's enduring commitment to developmentalism has contributed to the country's lackluster growth and pervasive inequality since the 1980s. While there have been some efforts to address these issues, such as the implementation of the Bolsa Familia program and efforts to promote sustainable development, there is still a long way to go in terms of breaking the cycle of underdevelopment and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth. The persistence of developmentalism in Brazil is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach, involving all stakeholders, including the government, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations. Only by working together
Together, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for Brazil and the world.

Weight: 578g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108827553
Edition number: New ed