This paper is the latest version of a paper first written in 2010

Expressions such as the solidarity economy, the social economy or the social and solidarity economy have been in use for about twenty years. There is also the term social solidarity economy, without the 'AND'. Are these expressions synonymous? Do they have different meanings? If so, how do they differ? In which countries or regions of the world have these notions appeared? Do they have different meanings in different cultural and socio-political contexts? What linkages exist between these concepts and related concepts such as local development and community economic development?

Download Solidarity Economy and Related Concepts: Origins and Definitions

This paper attempts to deepen readers' understanding of these various concepts. Yvon Poirier has been involved for many years within related social movements and this paper is based on his personal experiences and information gathered from other involved persons. With few exceptions, there are no specific references to scientific texts. The majority of materials used are those produced by the social movements themselves.

Comments and information to deepen understanding of these concepts are welcome by Yvon Poirier.

CONCEPTS EXPLORED

- SOCIAL ECONOMY
- SOLIDARITY ECONOMY
- SOCIAL SOLIDARITY ECONOMY
- SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
- SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR
- SOCIAL BUSINESS
- NON-PROFIT ENTERPRISE
- THIRD SECTOR
- FOURTH SECTOR
- POPULAR ECONOMY
- LOCAL DEVELOPMENT
- COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
- COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
- PEOPLE’S CENTERED DEVELOPMENT