Latin America Comparative analysis

Written by Lexi Smith  UMT         

 Latin America has undergone extensive social and governmental restructuring in the past two decades.  Governmental systems have shifted into democratic rule emphasizing in transnational economics.  Polyarchies have emerged in most Central American countries in which political elites have taken control of elected positions and governmental policy.   With new economic policies in place, Central American governments have adopted a capitalist social structure and are dependant upon foreign economies to meet their basic needs.  Political agendas that are more concerned with transnational economies are taking president over the social welfare of the citizens within the countries.  Peasants in Central America are loosing their ways of life and being forced into a labor economy in order to survive.  Foreign investment and the transnational economies are robbing the peasants of Central America of their traditional ways of life and methods of social reproduction.   

 A Comparative of Kurt Weyland & William Robinson views of Latin Americas changing economy 

The past two decades have provided drastic social, governmental, and economic changes within Central America.  Elites have taken control of governments and are pursuing transnational polices aimed at furthering their involvement in the global economy.  Elitist governments have created a centrist political system lacking radically opposing political parties.  These governments have insured their survival by eliminating any treats to their existence.  Substantial foreign aid has allowed these new governments gain and retain political power within Central America.  Transnational politics are controlling the policies and social structures that elitist governments are creating.  Political stability has been attained within Central America due to a lack of other choices.         

    Weyland views the current political stability as a step forward in Central America’s future.  Elections are held with multiple opponents and competitive campaigns.  Democracy has been established and the welfare of the citizens of Central America has improved.  Peasants are no longer in fear of rebel fighting or military regimes.  In this new democratic system the population does have a voice which is a step forward from the authoritarian and dictator regimes that were previously in place.  Elites within the government have established transnational and export lead economies that rely on foreign investment and consumers.  Transnational economies have forced the governments of Central America to adopt capitalist democracies which will attract foreign investment and aid.  Dependency upon the global economy has left Central America with only one choice of government.  Democracy must be sustained in order to sustain a nation’s economy and social society.  Therefore democracy has been strengthened in Central America because there is no other choice.