Synopses & Reviews
The Manipulation of Consent is a major contribution to our knowledge of the mechanisms by which elites instill in the lower classes the beliefs, values, and attitudes that legitimate their subordinate position in the social order. Youssef Cohen explores the case of Brazil, where the working class was relatively quiescent in the face of the authoritarian regime established by force in 1964. Drawing on recent advances in the theory of the state and the study of power relations, as well as on modern methods of social inquiry, he reveals the techniques of ideological control in the concrete setting of modern Brazilian society. The result is an unusually illuminating case study that blends theoretical exposition, conceptually informed historical analysis, and a wealth of emperical data. The Manipulation of Consent makes a substantial addition to the understanding of Brazilian politics, the study of power relations, and the theory of the state.
Review
“An outstanding book.”
—Journal of Politics
Review
“[T]his excellent volume analyzes the 1964 coup that swept Brazilian President Goulart’s democratic regime into exile and brought into power what became a vicious military dictatorship.”
—Choice
Review
"A fascinating analysis of some crucial periods in recent Brazilian history.”
—James M. Malloy
Synopsis
Youssef Cohen examines the methods elites use to legitimate their subjugation of ther subordinates through a case study of Brazil. He successfully blends theoretical exposition, conceptually informed historical analysis, and a wealth of emperical data.
About the Author
Youssef Cohen is associate professor of Political Science at New York University.