Intellectual and scientific representations and commercial practices

Abstract

Within the framework of the ongoing debate in social sciences regarding the relationship between economics, sociology, and history, the author reflects on the role of social representations of the economy, particularly intellectual and scientific representations. She demonstrates that, far from being neutral or merely descriptive, these representations play an active role in the genesis and transformation of economic institutions. Drawing upon research conducted in diverse geographical and historical contexts, notably in France and Brazil, she analyzes how, in specific configurations, models used to understand the practices of various agents can either contribute to their legitimization or, conversely, lead to their discredit.