Challenging subtle forms of power in deliberation: A case-study on the future of Hansen's disease colonies in Brazil

This paper analyses a micro-deliberative process in order to discuss how subtle forms of power pervade discussions and are challenged in them. The study of the First National Seminar of Former Hansen's Disease Colonies, held in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) in 2004, shows how the power to set the agenda and the power to claim credibility to one's utterances from sources other than reason may generate inequalities among participants. The analysis also reveals these forms of power are often challenged throughout communicative exchanges. Sometimes a clash of different forms of power may help in overcoming asymmetries. Based on these findings, it is suggested micro-deliberative arenas should be as heterogeneous as possible and connected to other deliberative arenas.