Amendments, Change and the Stability of Constitutions : The Cathedral Constitution of Brazil

This book presents a timely and thorough quantitative and qualitative analysis of amendments to the Brazilian Constitution of 1988 and the solidity of constitutions more generally.

The numerous amendments to the Brazilian Constitution of 1988 have led many to question its effectiveness, stability, and legitimacy. These concerns resonate deeply with the Brazilian population and its political figures, some of whom advocate for drafting a new constitution. In this climate, this volume presents a timely and thorough quantitative and qualitative analysis of these amendments and the solidity of constitutions more generally. The book focuses on understanding the impact of these amendments on the Constitution's foundational framework. By examining the nature and extent of changes over three decades, the study directly addresses contemporary concerns about the evolving nature of Brazilian constitutional law. This analysis is particularly appropriate now, given the ongoing debates about the Constitution's adaptability and the potential need for a more stable or enduring framework. The insights gained contribute significantly to informed discussions on constitutional reform, the resilience of legal structures, and the management of constitutional change in a dynamic socio-political landscape. Employing methodology that can be applied to other countries, the book enhances the growing body of knowledge in the field of constitutional law regarding constitutional amendments and reform processes. The work will be a valuable resource for academics and researchers working in the areas of Constitutional Law and Politics, Legal Theory and Comparative Law.