Abstract:
This study will approach the phenomenon of Latin American insurgencies as a counter-state. The counter-state operates within the geographical confines of the target polity, "but the physical proximity belies the necessary antibiosis between the state and the counter—state. If one is to survive, the other must perish. This concept of the counter-state will be developed by describing certain points of conflict between the practices of traditional politicians and those of the insurgents. The relationship between state and counter-state is one of competition and conflict. Competition for the normative and functional loyalty of the citizens and conflict in their relations with one another. An effort will be made to reveal some of the manifestations of these antagonistic relationships. The military aspects of this relationship will be dealt with only insofar as they have bearing on the political.