Social Movements and Radical Populism in the Andes: Ecuador and Bolivia in Comparative Perspective

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In Social Movements and Radical Populism in the Andes: Ecuador and Bolivia in Comparative Perspective, Jennifer N. Collins examines why the new left took the form of radical populism in Ecuador and Bolivia and how social movements were impacted by this development. Using a Laclauian approach, Collins argues that anti-neoliberal social movements provided the groundwork for populist identity formation. This book also offers a nuanced and insightful explanation for the decline of Ecuador's indigenous movement, examining the role of state resurgence in the fragmentation of social movements. Collinss analysis provides key insights into the life cycles of social movements in the Andes from development to decline.

Reviews

In clear and crisp style, Collins unpacks how Andean politics was transformed by contentious social movements and charismatic leftist leaders who rode to power on demands for change and social justice. Bolivia under Morales and Ecuador under Correa are critical case studies for understanding civil societys complex role in the making and breaking of radical populist experiments. This timely study offers sophisticated insights on the conflicts and collaborations reshaping regimes across Latin America and around the globe.

Drawing on years of work in the field, Collins effectively uses the Ecuadorian and Bolivian examples of Indigenous politics to provide a thoughtful, probing analysis of social movement mobilizations. In the process, we gain a better and deeper understanding of why social movements evolve the way they do. All scholars of social movements and ethnic politics will want to consult this book.

Author Bio

Jennifer N. Collins is professor and chair of the Department of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.