Now We Are in Power: The Politics of Passive Revolution, Twenty-first Century Bolivia

The book "Now We Are in Power" argues that the "Pink Tide" in Latin America was a passive revolution with two phases: subaltern struggle and reconciliation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2023
Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press

In the early 21st century, a remarkable political shift occurred across Latin America, as leftist leaders, including Evo Morales, gained control of governments. Bolivia witnessed a particularly significant moment when Morales, an Indigenous individual, became the country's president, following a five-year period of widespread popular insurrection against decades of neoliberal governance. This transformative period is explored in depth in Now We Are in Power, a book that argues that the so-called Pink Tide should be perceived as a passive revolution, characterized by two distinct phases. The first phase involves subaltern struggles led by ordinary citizens, which eventually culminate in a political crisis. The second phase entails reconciliation and transformation, marking a shift in power dynamics. Angus McNelly, the author, delves into this movement, providing a comprehensive examination of its unfolding trajectory. Through his analysis, McNelly demonstrates the inherent contradictions and complexities inherent in the passive revolution process, highlighting both its potential benefits and challenges.

The rise of leftist leaders in Latin America during the first decade of the 21st century marked a significant political shift. One notable example was the election of Evo Morales as the first Indigenous president of Bolivia. Morales' presidency followed a period of popular insurrection against decades of neoliberal governance, which had led to widespread economic inequality and social unrest.

Now We Are in Power, a book by Angus McNelly, explores the concept of a passive revolution as a framework for understanding this political shift. According to McNelly, the Pink Tide should be seen as a process that unfolds in two phases: a period of subaltern struggle led by ordinary citizens, culminating in a political crisis; and a subsequent phase of reconciliation and transformation.

In the first phase, subaltern struggles emerge as citizens challenge the dominant power structures and demand social and economic change. These struggles often take the form of protests, strikes, and other forms of collective action. The political crisis that follows is often triggered by the government's inability or unwillingness to address the demands of the subaltern groups.

The second phase of the passive revolution involves reconciliation and transformation. This phase is marked by a shift in power dynamics, as the subaltern groups gain political influence and work towards establishing a more equitable and inclusive society. This may involve the implementation of social programs, the redistribution of wealth, and the promotion of cultural diversity and identity.

McNelly's book provides a detailed examination of the passive revolution process in Bolivia, highlighting both its potential benefits and challenges. One of the book's key arguments is that the passive revolution is characterized by its nonviolent nature and its reliance on the collective action of ordinary citizens. This contrasts with traditional revolutions, which are often characterized by violence and political instability.

However, the passive revolution process also presents several challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the potential for resistance and backlash from those who benefit from the current power structures. Additionally, the process of reconciliation and transformation can be slow and difficult, as it requires the cooperation of multiple stakeholders and the willingness to compromise.

Overall, Now We Are in Power offers a valuable insight into the political shift occurring in Latin America and the role of the passive revolution in shaping this shift. The book's analysis of the process provides a framework for understanding the potential benefits and challenges of this type of political change and highlights the importance of citizen participation and social mobilization in achieving sustainable and equitable outcomes.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780822947783