Current Issues on the Political Representation of Middle Classes in Chile. Issue 3 (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barozet, Emmanuelle; Espinoza, Vicente
• Is Part Of: Journal of politics in Latin America. Volume 8:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 95
• Page End: 123
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: Chile -- middle classes -- political representation -- vulnerability -- Chile -- clases medias -- representación política -- vulnerabilidad; Comparative government -- Periodicals; Latin America -- Politics and government -- 1980- -- Periodicals; Politics and government; Latin America; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 320.3098
• DOI: 10.1177/1866802X1600800304
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1866-802X

Abstract

In this article, we analyze the impact that the evolution of the middle classes has had on political representation in Chile. Based on a description of the transformations of Chilean social structure in recent decades, we review the conceptual frameworks available on the subject, from modernization theories and the rise of new masses – particularly the one that "emerged" from poverty – to the forming of new critical citizens. We state that the heterogeneity of Chilean middle classes has challenged the discredited representation system. We observe more efficient representation channels developing for medium-high-income, educated, and consolidated sectors in contrast to new social policy demands from emerging and vulnerable sectors, focusing more on consolidating their economic status than on improving representation channels.