Abstract
To explain the logic of support & opposition to market-oriented structural reforms, it is necessary to rethink the relationship between politics & economics, which raises the controversial question of state power. Dissenting from mainstream analyses, reasons why an increase in sociopolitical tensions should be expected when economic performance improves are delineated. Several alternative politico-economic scenarios for Latin American countries are outlined: organic crisis, successful neoliberal restructuring along with a fragmented & exclusionary democracy, inclusionary democracy with strong actors & an activist state, & dual democratic regimes with mediocre economic outcomes. To rethink Latin American development & political economy, analysis can proceed most fruitfully through comparative analyses that place particular emphasis on the specific characteristics of each society. 4 Figures, 75 References. Adapted from the source document.
