Key elements of projectment economy

Abstract

The article, written in 2014 to mark the centenary of Brazilian thinker Ignácio Ran- gel, explores the origins of the concept of projectment and discusses the enduring relevance of a work that is now more than half a century old. This summary em- phasizes that the article’s goal has already been fulfilled, as the concept of pro- jectment has regained its vibrancy and dynamism as a theoretical tool for addres- sing contemporary issues. At first glance, the text suggests that the projectment economy has vanished from our historical horizon. As it states: “The projectment economy is historically outdated or, at least, in sharp decline.” However, recent studies have clearly disproven this hypothesis. Notably, researchers such as Elias Jabbour and his collaborators have undertaken the task of analyzing the Chinese experience through the lens of the projectment economy, thereby demonstrating its continued relevance. It is also worth noting that the ongoing economic and environmental crises have prompted the capitalist world — particularly its Ameri- can core — to adopt plans and programs aligned with traditional Keynesian prin- ciples. This indicates that economic planning, in its various forms, remains highly relevant today. It seems that Rangel’s vision, summarized in this article, still holds: the ongoing development of the projectment economy continues, shaped by both historical forces and human agency.