Abstract

Within the framework of the Cartographies of Heterogeneous Economies research project (Fondecyt N.° 1.160.186), a discourse analysis of the actors of social and solidarity economy was developed in Chile. Using an intentional sample, semi-structured interviews were applied to 45 key informants (from the public sector, universities, cooperatives and civil society organizations). Through a content analysis, thematic axes were identified that allowed, on the one hand, to characterize initiatives, experiences or ventures and, on the other hand, to recognize the narratives that key informants held about alternative economies. The results allow us to understand and recognize the diversity of discourses and practices about alternative economies. These may be organized according to two axes: (1) the tension between molar and molecular subjectivities; and (2) the tension between reform and transformation (which refers to a transformative type of institutional and socio-material change). These categories propose an interpretive framework that integrates a variety of distinctions or polarities. This allows to advance in understanding the diverse epistemic and discursive economic framework held by social economy actors, which problematizes the homogeneity of formal economic discourse. The document also shows the political challenges that this diversity poses.