Redefining brotherhood: tensions between tradition and collectivization in a peasant group

Abstract

This article is about the planning and execution of the collective production of erva—mate by the Cafuzo Community, settled by the govemment seven years ago in the city of J osé Boiteux, state of Santa Catarina. This analysis focuses on the conflicts and tensions aroused by this collectivization of work. The theory used for interpretation was the one about the tension between two ideal society types: communitary and societary. I show the tension between the Cafuzo tradition, which are peasant, and the new organizational guidelines, as well as the tension between this group and the involving society. There are emphasized specific aspects of their collective organization, such as the assemblies, financial administration and the Cafuzos’ relationship with each other and with their counselors. These aspects supported observation and comprehension of how the Cafuzos deal with the conflict between different values and organizational forms.