Refining Our Empirical Perspectives on Entrepreneurship Research

The empirical realities of entrepreneurship research can be challenging. Measurement, theoretical scope and fit as well as sampling issues abound. To attain the highest research quality, we must strive to posit a broad theoretical view that encompasses the known aspects of entrepreneurial experiences as well as measure carefully and sample appropriately. In the lead editorial, Mike Wright and Shaker A. Zahra offer a provocative revisit of entrepreneurship’s darker side and ask probing questions. What are the real effects of entrepreneurship on our society, families and entrepreneurs, both positive and negative? In an equally thought provoking editorial “Pillow Talk Leaks” Sharon M. Danes delineates the dynamics of couples as they build and operate entrepreneurial ventures. Finally, Stephanie L. Castro carefully reexamines our usual survey measurements relative to underreporting validity, not following guidelines, and altering existing measures. The three competitive research articles epitomize the empirical refinement of our entrepreneurship research perspectives by: 1) examining how the global economic crisis can undermine structural change in developing countries relative to entrepreneurial activities; 2) providing a new examination of the returns to education in self-employment; and 3) offering a unique look at the ethical aspects of empirical studies of entrepreneurs among immigrants and ethnic minorities.