Governance structures in the state of São Paulo: low participation and information asymmetries

Abstract

This article proposes a model, shaped by concepts of actors and institutions, to describe the operation of some structures of governance in State of São Paulo, based on results of a research that sought to discuss its importance for sustainable regional development. Supposedly, the primary function of these structures is cooperation. However, secondary data and field reserach indicated its fragility, evidenced by low participation and asymmetric information. A possible explanation is proposed from Brazilian institutional framework, based on the values of the patriarchal family, legitimizes oligarchic and patrimonial behaviors that hinder cooperation. Even so, they can be described as attempt to stand back from those behaviors to start a slow institutional change.