INSTYTUCJE FORMALNE I NIEFORMALNE W KSZTAŁTOWANIU TRWAŁEGO ROZWOJU
FORMAL AND INFORMAL INSTITUTIONS IN SHAPING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Summary/Abstract: In the first part of the paper the author characterizes main cognitive differences between the neo-classical theory of equilibrium growth and the theory of Sustainable Development, paying special attention to their microeconomic foundations. While criticizing from the perspective of sustainability the concept of homo oeconomicus, he simultaneously emphasizes the need to identify microeconomic foundations of sustainable development, referring, among other things, to the concept of Homo sustinens (B. Siebehüner) and social embededness and homo sociologicus (M. Granovetter). Point two of the paper starts with the assertion that in the identification of motives of action of microeconomic entities key role is played by institutions. In their analysis, referring to the New Institutional Economy, both formal and informal institutions, as well as the so called (North) institutional governance has been recognized. The subsequent analysis was focused on their impact on sustainable development, with taking into account interdependencies between formal and informal institutions. The author also formulates the notion of institutional equilibrium and from its perspective evaluates the process of transition towards the sustainable development. In the last part of the paper (part three) a superior significance of informal institutions in the process of embarking upon the sustainable development path has been emphasized, also introducing in this context the notion of ecological governance.

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