This article analyzes the different meanings of the term solidarity. There are not many theories about this theme, although it is debated in the fields of sociology, philosophy and political science. The paper looks at the origin of the term when it had the meaning of unity and assistance to others. The term is considered in the context of modernity, presenting its use in the French solidarity movement, in the social doctrine of the church, in the working class movement and in the adoption of solidarity as a Government principle that guides social policies. Finally, it considers the term of solidarity economics, and finds that the use of the linguistic form of the adjective, in addition to its presentation with the connotation of something to be built and lived among equals, whoever they are, and among those excluded from the dominant economic sphere. It reflects on the use of the term solidarity economics, considering its social and historic construction.
solidarity; economic solidarity; social policy