The triumph of intransigence: Olavo de Carvalho and Brazilian cultural conservatism

Abstract

Olavo de Carvalho remained for decades on the margins of Brazilian public debate, being ridiculed on several occasions. However, working consistently for decades with teaching and interventions, he maintained his position unshaken until, from 2016 onwards, he moved to the center of Brazilian politics, becoming influential in the Brazilian national and international agenda through his former students who held important positions. How can we understand his thinking? How can we deal with his legacy? What new things did he bring? In what lies the strength that ensured the permanence of his positions for decades?