The politics of recognition: a PT´s new social policy?

Abstract

This work raises the hypothesis that the PT governments are introducing significant changes in social policy. These changes stress a necessary convergence (Fraser, 1999; Honneth, 2003) between the traditional policies of socioeconomic redistribution and a new emphasis on the recognition of socio-political and cultural differences. The origins of these changes are seen in the labour union practices of the PT and in the effects of political participation on the transformation of political culture in various parts of the country. There is a growing support to democracy which is apparently related to the recognition of the right to difference and plurality – mainly among the young people, but also occurring particularly in the locations administered by the PT during the last decade. Key words: social policy; socioeconomic redistribution; recognition policy; Worker’s Party (PT).