The meanings of solidarity economy: reflections on a training course

Abstract

This article presents reflections on a Training Course in Solidarity Economy by Senaes, which is part of a public policy conducted by the Federal Government for Solidarity Economy (SE) in Brazil. Based on the relationship between the social movements and the State, the effort is to grasp the meanings of solidarity economy along this process of formation. Considering the objectives, values, and principles expressed by the SE movement in the literature and in the documents gathered, two strands are identified: critical SE and neoliberal SE. The empirical research took place in two steps: a documentary and an ethnographic step, addressing the three different moments of the course: pre-conception, conception, and implementation. Data were examined through content analysis and, once the course was completed, it was possible to perceive that, in general, there is a consonance of meanings in the three moments identified around the critical SE and an appropriate pedagogical practice in the classroom. In addition, we found a moderation of the speech by Senaes, and, in principle, it does not mischaracterize the SE movement, but presents a potential risk of deviating from its ideals and objectives. In the final considerations, the highlights of the research are shown followed by a brief discussion of what seems to be the limits and possibilities of actions like these promoted through the State.