Pentecostalism in Brazil Emotion of the Poor and Theological Romanticism [Paperback]

With its exalted emotionality, Pentecostalism is a widespread religious movement in Latin America and Africa. It is a blend of Methodism and African religious culture which arouses the passions of the poorest Brazilian masses. Pentecostal conversion is experienced as a sudden break which radically transforms the life of these sectors of the population. Pentecostalism is an Utopia of equality, love and emotion, which is staged during the worship service. However, it is also characterized by authoritarian features. Pentecostalism is slowly eroding the foundation of Western political categories.Preface Introduction Participation and the Poor: Liberation Theology Emotion and the Poor: Pentecostalism (I) Emotion and the Poor: Pentecostalism (II) The Left and the 'Passion of the Base' Praise: an Original Utterance Piety and Prosperity The Sect: the Anti-Politics of the Poor Conclusion References Bibliography Index

'...excellent contribution...for a truly original application of social theories to some of the most disconcerting aspects of a most important phenomenon.' - David Lehmann, Journal of Latin American Studies

'No one has studied this powerful sect better than Andr? Corten, Professor of Political Science at the Universit? du Qu?bec ? Montr?al. He defines this sect as 'an Utopia of love, equality and emotion' staged in the worship service, which nonetheless presents authoritarian features.' - Nancy Dolhem, Le Monde Diplomatique

'Andr? Corten... provides a fascinating book on Pentecostalism, with an exploration of theological questions, necessary for a more encompassing perspective on a religious phenomenon of such proportions.' - Waldo Cesar, Jornal do Brasil

'This book contributes the perspective of a Political Scientist to the discussion on Brazilian Pentecostalism. Andr? Corten carries out his work without prejudices, and joins other authors in pointing out and demonstrating the possible avenues reservlS1