The term "social economy" refers to an economic system that prioritizes the principles of solidarity, cooperation, and social justice over profit maximization. It emphasizes the well-being of individuals and communities, as well as the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
In a social economy, economic activities are guided by social objectives rather than solely by financial gains. It encompasses a wide range of organizations, enterprises, and initiatives that strive to address social needs and foster sustainable development, such as cooperatives, mutual societies, nonprofit organizations, and social enterprises.
The social economy operates on the belief that economic development should serve the interests of the entire society rather than just a few. It promotes democratic decision-making processes within organizations and encourages active participation from members and stakeholders to shape the economic activities and outcomes.
The social economy seeks to create a more inclusive and participatory economy by focusing on social cohesion, community development, and environmental sustainability. It often involves collaboration between civil society, public authorities, and the private sector to develop innovative solutions for social, economic, and environmental challenges.
By placing social objectives at the center of economic activities, the social economy aims to foster a fairer distribution of wealth, reduce inequalities, and strengthen social solidarity. It recognizes the importance of balancing economic efficiency with social equity and highlights the interconnections between economic, social, and environmental dimensions for sustainable development.
The etymology of the word "social economy" can be traced back to the combination of two terms: "social" and "economy".
1. Social: The term "social" derives from the Latin word "socius", meaning "companion" or "associate". Over time, it evolved to mean "relating to society or its organization". In the context of "social economy", it refers to economic activities that foster social well-being, solidarity, and community development.
2. Economy: The word "economy" originates from the Greek word "oikonomia", which is a combination of "oikos" (household) and "nomos" (management). Initially, it referred to the management of a household or the efficient use of resources within a household. Later, it came to encompass broader meanings related to the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services within a community or a nation.