Bolsonaro: o mito e o sintoma

The book is praised for offering interesting reflections and analyzing a significant political phenomenon from various angles. Reviewers highlight its detailed exploration of concepts like "neoliberalism" and "imaginario," connecting them to economic and political shifts, as well as anti-intellectualism in contemporary governance. The most compelling sections are noted for unraveling why the central figure is understood as both a "myth" and a "symptom," ultimately providing readers with new perspectives on the political landscape.

However, significant criticisms are raised regarding the book's originality and academic integrity. One reviewer points out that much of the content appears to be directly copied from a previous work by the author, merely updated with new examples, leading to numerous identical passages. The reflections, while interesting, are not considered particularly novel. The author's tone is sometimes described as militant and even arrogant, creating a perceived division between informed and ignorant readers. Furthermore, the book's subtitle concepts are not as thoroughly developed as expected, and it is noted for lacking proper citations for some ideas. The use of passionate and angry language is also criticized for compromising the objectivity expected of a scholarly text, leading to concerns about value judgments.

In conclusion, the book offers some valuable insights into the political phenomenon it addresses, particularly through its conceptual analyses. Despite opening new avenues for understanding for some readers, its impact is diminished by concerns over originality, self-plagiarism, and an overly opinionated tone that can detract from its academic credibility. It would likely appeal to readers interested in a critical, left-leaning analysis of contemporary politics and the interplay of economic and social forces, provided they are prepared for a less academically rigorous and more polemical approach, and are aware that much of the content may not be entirely new.