The cooperative as a form of ever-evolving enterprise. Two cases of community-based cooperative in Puglia

Since its origin, the cooperative organisation of economic activity has been analysed on the basis of alternative scientific paradigms. The different approaches are due to the multiple perspectives suggested by a phenomenon multi-faceted in itself and that can be observed starting from different premises and purposes. Starting from these considerations, it seemed us appropriate to analyse the cooperative forms of enterprise focussing on the economic aspects of the production of goods and services, carried out in enterprises in which the management is entrusted to bodies different from those allocating the financial capital. Taking this into account, the first part of this work will focus on the definition of the cooperative forms of enterprise in general economic theory and in business theory. On the basis of the theoretical-conceptual profiles of reference, this study proposes an interpretation of the cooperative enterprise representing a reference model of the economic production that can at the same time increase both the economic development and the wealth of a whole community. With specific regard to this latter aspect, the second part of this work will focus on two cooperatives from Puglia, structured as community-based cooperatives, which tend to associate the pursuit of economic goals with the social and economic development of the local communities in which they operate. Through the illustration of two case studies (the community-based cooperatives Melpignano and Jemma) this paper aims to highlight the potential of community-based cooperatives for the support and the economic and social development of local area and its residents.