A contribution to the study of socio-political polarization in Brazil

Abstract

The current political situation in Brazil is characterized by a profound contrast between the propensity for authoritarianism and the desire for a more just and democratic society. This research examines the possible causes of this polarization by testing a model of structural equations. It has been hypothesized that participation in public life depends on the citizenry’s reaction to the public and private insecurities (criminality, fear of crime and corruption) that affect Brazilian society. The results indicate that trust in institutions and the capacity for cognitive mobilization are two factors that shape the relationship between insecurities and two irreconcilable visions of political participation: one passive-aggressive and the other proactive and involving protest.