Politics, bureaucracy and social networks: The case of nominees for high levels positions within the Brazilian Central Bank (Banco Central do Brasil)

Abstract

The study of nominees to high level positions within the Brazilian Central Bank (Banco Central do Brasil) through social network analysis enables us to understand fundamental aspects of the Brazilian political and administrative system. Choice of public administrators affects the governability and governing of the country. The exchange of positions for parliamentary support can work to guarantee government stability, but it may also reduce the president's control over bureaucracy and the management of public policies. Social network analysis makes it possible to determine what criteria have been used in the choice of public administrators, revealing new patterns of State-society interface and paving the way for the study of accountability in the relationship between public administratores and bureaucracy, and between government and society. © 2008 Revista de Sociologia e Política.