Audacious Reforms examines the creation of new political institutions in three Latin American countries: direct elections for governors and mayors in Venezuela, radical municipalization in Bolivia, and direct election of the mayor of Buenos Aires in Argentina. Diverging from the usual incremental processes of political change, these cases marked a significant departure from traditional centralized governments. Such "audacious reforms," explains Merilee S. Grindle, reinvent the ways in which public problems are manifested and resolved, the ways in which political actors calculate the costs and benefits of their activities, and the ways in which social groups relate to the political process. Grindle considers three central questions: Why would rational politicians choose to give up power? What accounts for the selection of some institutions rather than others? And how does the introduction of new institutions alter the nature of political actions? The case studies of Venezuela, Bolivia, and Argentina demonstrate that institutional invention must be understood from theoretical perspectives that stretch beyond immediate concerns about electoral gains and political support building. Broader theoretical perspectives on the definition of nation and state, the nature of political contests, the legitimacy of political systems, and the role of elites all must be considered. While past conflicts are not erased by reforms, in the new order there is often greater potential for more responsible, accountable, and democratic government.

An important book on the politics of decentralization in Latin America and, more generally, on the puzzles of institutional formation and change. Audacious Reforms is full of close empirical analysis, fresh analytic insights, broad theoretical implications, and engaging prose. Grindle's book is likely to be a central reference point in the growing debates on decentralization for many years to come. -- Ben Ross Schneider, Northwestern University

About the Author
Merilee S. Grindle is in the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Reviews
Timely, well-researched, and clearly written. -- Elisabeth Jay Friedman Political Science Quarterly A major contribution to the growing literature on political decentralisation and institutional reform in Latin America. Grindle's perceptive observations, excellent case studies, and sophisticated analysis have moved current debates forward. -- Eliza Willis Journal of Latin American Studies



Book Information
ISBN 9780801864216
Author Merilee S. Grindle
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Johns Hopkins University Press
Publisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 397g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 17mm