This outstanding special issue of a leading scholarly journal explores recent trends in political polarization in the Western Hemisphere and worldwide. Polarization is hardly novel in Latin America—the 1960s and 1970s, after all, witnessed traumatic democratic breakdowns and violent authoritarian takeovers. By contrast, the new polarization typically occurs among actors within the democratic arena. The top-notch contributors recognize that definitive generalizations offering explanations for economic disparities, cultural divides, and political conflict across many countries are difficult to maintain. Nevertheless, some insights offer grounds for hope. With just two exceptions (Nicaragua and Venezuela), democracies in Latin America are proving to be resilient and enduring, even if they are weak by some measures. Modest polarization may actually strengthen democracy by forcing debates and encouraging public participation. The authors suggest positive measures to prevent divisive debates from leading to autocratic rule, such as keeping democratic guardrails in place, building broad-based democratic coalitions, and fostering leadership that can craft campaign narratives that cut against polarization.
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Publish date : 2024-10-21 16:55:00
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