The Stigmatisation of Poor Citizens Living in Slums in Brazil: the Rio de Janeiro Scenario as a Study Paradigm

Objective: This paper aims to encourage reflection on the causes and consequences of the (lack of) public policies and the intersubjective peculiarities that exist between marginalized residents and civil society in general. Theoretical framework: This article is based on the lessons, research and considerations of Anthony Leeds, Karl Marx, Ricardo Mariano, Bruno Manso and Viviane Costa. Method: Use of micro and macro sociological dialectical methodology as complementary methods of analysis of Rio de Janeiro's “favelas”, which are briefly historicized, described and problematized. Results and discussion: Rio de Janeiro's “favelas” were used as a model and concrete object of analysis of precariousness, the lack of emancipatory public policies and, in effect, the insecurity experienced by residents of marginalized regions in Brazil. Implications of the research: It is concluded that there are structural problems linked to the precarious living conditions of marginalized people and the formation of a reserve army of workers, as well as intersubjective issues linked to public safety and the lack of interest of public agents in implementing emancipatory public policies. Originality/value: This is a current, reflective and critical discussion in the face of the undue and inadequate State of Affairs in Brazil, notably related to the outskirts, socioeconomically excluded people and those on the margins of Brazilian society.