Solidary and Social Market Economy. Present Interest in Leon Bourgeois and Charles Gide

Solidary and social economy – a component of the present market economy – originates mostly in Adam Smith's thoughts on the social labour division. In fact, while in activity, every individual is useful, in a way or other, to the others. This type of economy took shape mainly in the last decades of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, under the influence – among others – of Leon Burgeois and Charles Gide. In the last decades, along with the increasing “market dictatorship” and, consequently, with labour exclusion and benefits to many individuals, the solidary and social economy has gained ground. The outcome is positive in relation to both “right” policies and “left” policies. In general, people have expectations. How do all these orientations and prospects take shape? This is the topic of my paper.