ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the state's relationship with society, in particular large, organized sectors of the population able to assert themselves in pursuit of their demands. The functional definition of corporatism refers to a model of political participation in which powerful groups such as trade unions, peasant organizations, and military are linked to the state in a subordinate but mutually beneficial relationship. Entrepreneurs and private businesses have long shaped the evolution of Latin American economies alongside other sectors and state, with their influence waxing and waning often in accordance with the prevailing ideological and economic climate. Business associations play important political roles associated with democracy, representation, accountability, and governability. There have been scores of military interventions in Latin America and, until 1980s, coups were as much a feature of politics as elections. Latin America is home to about 425 million Roman Catholics and the role and power of the Church has been a central factor shaping political development of its states.
