Victory through conquest in 1960’s Brazil: Business interest associations, moral panic, and policymaking

Abstract

We analyse the impact of business interest associations (BIAs) on policymaking through coordinated efforts. We focus on short films produced in the early 1960s by the influential Brazilian think tank, Institute for Research and Social Studies (IPES; 1961–1972). Founded, funded, and managed by the business elite, IPES aimed to counter the alleged ‘advance of Soviet communism’ by shaping public opinion and destabilising the political landscape, ultimately paving the way for the 1964 businessmen-military coup, prioritising business interests over workers’ welfare. These short films were widely disseminated through various channels, serving as a means to propagate moral panic. Exploring the historical engagement of BIAs sheds light on the complex relationships among the State, governments, and business, showcasing diverse voice strategies employed by BIAs. The article also delves into the contemporary use of videos and partisanship among executives, highlighting the films’ significance as historical documents for crafting new management histories.