The Essence of ‘Social’ in Social Entrepreneurship

Abstract

In order to expand our understanding of social entrepreneurship in the emerging entrepreneurial world, this study attempts to derive the essence of the term ‘social’ of ‘social entrepreneurship’. Prior studies have defined social entrepreneurship from different perspectives. The paper reviews and evaluates the current status of research dealing with entrepreneurship, in general, and social entrepreneurship, in particular. By using the archive method of research, the proposed study rests on the recognition that the 'social' intention of the entrepreneurs is the primary factor in differentiating social and traditional entrepreneurship. The paper concludes with the implications for practitioners and directions for future research.