A debate on neopatrimonialism: conceptual co-ordinates and analytical notes

• Published in: Espiral (Guadalajara, Mexico) Vol. 20; no. 58; pp. 37 - 66
• Main Authors: Carrillo, Alejandro Monsivais, Martinez, Adolfo del Rio
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: 01.09.2013
• Subjects: Appropriation; Cluster Analysis; Democracy; Indexes (Measures); Latin America; Law; Political Systems; Public Goods; Rule of Law
• ISSN: 1665-0565

The aim of this paper is to discuss the concept of neopatrimonialism, a notion that has been employed to depict the persistence of traditional forms of authority in the midst of the legal-bureaucratic institutions of contemporary states. It is argued that the concept describes a particularistic mode of appropriation of public goods. Then, it is shown how to identify a conceptual space of possibilities for neopatrimonialism to thrive. This space is established by the intersection of two dimensions: the type of political regime and the measure of bureaucratic strength of the state. Using a method of hierarchical cluster analysis, Latin American countries are classified according to indicators of bureaucratic development and portrayed in a bi-dimensional space. Based on the empirical evidence and the prior theoretical elaboration, the concept of neopatrimonialism is discussed in the light of its analytical explanatory force. It is conclude that this latter issue requires further research; hence, it has to be accompanied by other strategies of analysis on the relationship between sociopolitical practices and the functioning of the state. Adapted from the source document.