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Rethinking the Boundaries and Definition of Social Entrepreneurship: A Critical Literature Review

Author

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  • Parisa Mohammadi
  • Khalid Suraid Salim AlHattali
  • Issa Nasser Salim Alghatrifi

Abstract

With a passion for leaving no one behind, social entrepreneurs are driven to find solutions for societal problems that have not yet been addressed by traditional methods. Although potential benefits offered by social entrepreneurship are undeniable, the exact boundaries and definition of this emerging concept remain somewhat nebulous. Without an explicit understanding of what social entrepreneurship entails, it becomes susceptible to different interpretations and undermines its significance in economic and social development. Consequently, this paper aims to rigorously define social entrepreneurship through an extensive review of the literature. To this end, the library method has been used to search electronic academic databases and Internet sources alike. The results of our research revealed that social entrepreneurship can be defined as an entrepreneurial process that employs business techniques to bring innovative yet sustainable solutions for persistent social problems – ultimately leading to improved quality of life and empowering disadvantaged communities. This paper makes a significant contribution to covering the knowledge gap by distinguishing social entrepreneurship from various similar entities and activities.

Suggested Citation

  • Parisa Mohammadi & Khalid Suraid Salim AlHattali & Issa Nasser Salim Alghatrifi, 2024. "Rethinking the Boundaries and Definition of Social Entrepreneurship: A Critical Literature Review," Business Management and Strategy, Macrothink Institute, vol. 15(1), pages 226-240, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:mth:bmsmti:v:15:y:2024:i:1:p:226-240
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Joyce Koe Hwee Nga & Gomathi Shamuganathan, 2010. "The Influence of Personality Traits and Demographic Factors on Social Entrepreneurship Start Up Intentions," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 95(2), pages 259-282, August.
    2. Certo, S. Trevis & Miller, Toyah, 2008. "Social entrepreneurship: Key issues and concepts," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 51(4), pages 267-271.
    3. Zahra, Shaker A. & Gedajlovic, Eric & Neubaum, Donald O. & Shulman, Joel M., 2009. "A typology of social entrepreneurs: Motives, search processes and ethical challenges," Journal of Business Venturing, Elsevier, vol. 24(5), pages 519-532, September.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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