The "outsider's" qrrival at the rural-paradise: new actors and social and economic relations in Serra de Ibitipoca's tourist space - state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Abstract

This article discusses the processes occurred from the appropriation of Serra do Ibitipoca by urban demands, via tourism – focusing on the transformation of the spaces which were until then characterized by traditional agricultural activities and peculiar forms of social organization. It analyzes the tensions brought up by the arrival of the new social actors to the area, which caused a series of conflicts between the new come outsiders and the peasants – who has been established in the region for decades. Norbert Elias’ theoretical model – “Social Figurative Model” - is then adopted in order to guide this study. Therefore, the article demonstrates how both groups dispute for the achievement of higher power positions, defining strategies of social distinction and disputes involving those relations. The changes witnessed reflect Ibitipoca’s rural area as the place of the encounter of distinct temporalities, where the various actors exhibit distinct representations, interests and values.