Savoirs savants, savoirs d’action et co-constructions au prisme de la transaction sociale

Abstract

The social transaction paradigm is helpful for understanding the combination of expert and experiential knowledge in the co-construction of both scientific knowledge and public policies. The focus of this paradigm is on the elaboration of acceptable compromises in the fields of moral values and/or material interests. Such agreements often remain fragile: whether it is right or wrong, they may be denounced when a partner considers they play at his/her disadvantage. Social inequalities and power relations structure the relationship between scholars and lay people. However, a social transaction process opens paths for the emancipation of both parties.

Keywords

• co-construction
• emancipation
• expert knowledge
• experiential knowledge
• public policy
• social transaction