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Construir la “sociedad civil”
Building “Civil Society”: Interpretations of Civil Discourse in a Confessional Organization
Keywords:
Civil society, Civil associations, Ethnography of civil society, Cultural sociology, PerformanceAbstract
This article explores how a civil association becomes recognized as such through performative means. Based on documentary review, interviews, and ethnographic accompaniment, it reconstructs the backstage and civil performance of an evangelical-rooted organization in low-income neighborhoods in Estado de México, as well as the interpretations it generates among its audiences. The article argues that the association translates evangelical values into a civil script, summarized in the slogans “working with the people,” “changing the mindset,” and “opening up to society.” This script allows the organization to differentiate itself from political groups operating in the area. The interpretations of this performance among its audiences go beyond mere acceptance or rejection, revealing the tensions generated by the association’s script and performance.Downloads
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