O Estado neoliberal: genealogia autoritária e as consequências para a democracia

Abstract

This research aims to reconstruct the genealogy of neoliberalism, highlighting its intrinsic connection to the establishment of an authoritarian state, which is essential for enforcing neoliberal policies. The analysis shows that neoliberalism, far from being an anti-state ideology, requires a strong state to impose its logic, often through authoritarian and violent practices such as the punitive control of the population and the criminalization of dissenters. The study reveals that neoliberalism leads to a state re-engineering that results in a fragmented society, where social solidarity is replaced by excessive individualism and competition between individuals. The research also underscores the incompatibility between neoliberalism and democracy, arguing that this system fosters an authoritarian and antidemocratic mode of governance. Finally, the thesis concludes that neoliberalism cannot be understood without the presence of an authoritarian state, and its ontologically antidemocratic nature is irreconcilable with democracy.