La relación entre capacidad y autoridad en el Estado: La construcción de un Estado 'Excepcionalista' en Ecuador

Abstract

In this paper we posit that the trajectory of structural-economic transformations in Ecuador between 2008 and 2014 can be understood from the perspective of state theory. Specifically, we argue that strengthening state authority in Ecuador has come at the expense of state capacities: by positioning the state in a place of 'exceptional authority', governmental actions sidelined the development of formal and informal networks between state and non-state actors, such as industrialists. Furthermore, we show that state capacities have been further undermined by internal divisions within bureaucratic structures and an eclectic process of leadership formation at the level of the state's bureaucracy. Combined, these processes have resulted in a hybrid state form: A state with high degrees of authority that coexist with low levels of institutional and organizational capacity -A state form we have termed an 'Exceptionalist State'.