BOLSONARISM AS A FAR-RIGHT DISCURSIVE COALITION

Abstract

This article examines the characterization of Bolsonarism, questioning its recurrent definition as a form of populism. We argue that this approach is inadequate, as the concept of populism, by referring to the abstract notion of “the people,” proves to be excessively broad and normative. Using the methodology of conceptual formation, we propose instead to understand the far right as a spatial and relational concept, in which different ideological and discursive traditions converge within a field of political struggle. From this perspective, we define Bolsonarism as a far-right discursive coalition that articulates four main ideological strands: neo-fascism, ultra-liberalism, Christian conservatism, and military authoritarianism. This coalition is held together by a common antagonism – anti-communism and, in its recent manifestation, anti-Petismo. In addition to contributing to the analysis of Bolsonarism, this article aims to provide a conceptual framework that allows for more rigorous comparisons between the new Latin American farright movements, overcoming the limitations of existing analytical models.