Social networks make it difficult to build bridges in politics, says Cortez
Political scientist Rafael Cortez assessed that social networks represent one of the main obstacles to building agreements and moderation in Brazilian politics. In an interview with WW Especial, Cortez also highlighted that the country's current political arrangement is increasingly closed to renewal, both in presidential and legislative elections.
For Cortez, the operating logic of digital platforms is fundamentally contrary to the principles of plurality and respect for differences that support democratic politics. "Social media is not an instrument that operates in a logic of plurality, in a logic of respect for difference, of building agreements", he stated.
According to Cortez, political communication on social media tends to be radicalized. He argued that, while parties are expected to convince the population about the validity of certain platforms and public policies, the dynamics of the networks operate in the opposite direction. "Politics through social media is the opposite. It is niche, exaggerated and radicalized. It speaks to each audience," he said. For the political scientist, this environment makes it difficult to perceive the construction of agreements, bridges and political renewal.
Cortez also drew attention to what he classified as a counterproductive effect of the political reforms implemented in Brazil. He highlighted that the barrier clause - a mechanism that requires a minimum number of votes for a party to be represented - and the campaign financing model have contributed to the concentration of political power. "Those who are big have a lot of money and financing increases their power in future elections", he explained. The political scientist recalled that, if before there was criticism of excessive party fragmentation, now the problem is the opposite movement: concentration.
Cortez highlighted that the presidential election has historically always been concentrated in two main forces, which makes the entry of new actors naturally difficult. However, his concern is with Congress. "What I think is most serious is that we are also closing the legislative elections for this renewal", he stated, highlighting that the proportional system should, in theory, accommodate greater political diversity.
WW Special
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Source: CNN