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Dynamics of social networks of urban informal entrepreneurs in an African economy

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  • Jean-Philippe Berrou
  • Claire Gondard-Delcroix

Abstract

This paper carries out an analysis of the formation and transformation of social relations and networks of access to resources in the professional trajectory of micro-entrepreneurs operating in an urban informal African economy. The analysis of social networks is rooted in Granovetter’s structural embeddedness framework combined with the dynamic and discursive conception of social relations of Harisson White (embeddedness and decoupling). Life stories of micro and small entrepreneurs in Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina-Faso) are analyzed by mixing qualitative and quantitative methods. Results suggest that the construction of social networks and interpersonal relations of access to resources is a long-term process. A co-construction of social networks and economic activity is observed; it challenges the argument that social capital is a substitute for a lack of personal resources. The growth of small and micro activities is linked to the professionalization and stabilization of a social network, and even to the institutionalization of access to resources.

Suggested Citation

  • Jean-Philippe Berrou & Claire Gondard-Delcroix, 2018. "Dynamics of social networks of urban informal entrepreneurs in an African economy," Review of Social Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 76(2), pages 167-197, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rsocec:v:76:y:2018:i:2:p:167-197
    DOI: 10.1080/00346764.2017.1349330
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    Cited by:

    1. Claire GONDARD-DELCROIX & Holimalala RANDRIAMANAMPISOA & Pierre A. LAZAMANANA & Aina ANDRIANJAKATINA, 2019. "Diversity of social protection forms in Madagascar A multi-scalar and multi-actor approach," Cahiers du GREThA (2007-2019) 2019-11, Groupe de Recherche en Economie Théorique et Appliquée (GREThA).
    2. Grossetti, Michel, 2018. "Embeddedness and decoupling in innovation activities," economic sociology. perspectives and conversations, Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies, vol. 19(3), pages 19-24.
    3. Bally, Frederic & Daudigeos, Thibault & Calamel, Ludivine & Tallec, Josselin, 2025. "Where and how do social entrepreneurs access resources in the early stages of their ventures? A relational chain typology of French social ventures," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 201(C).
    4. Polge, Etienne & Pagès, Hugo, 2022. "Relational drivers of the agroecological transition: An analysis of farmer trajectories in the Limagne plain, France," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 200(C).

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