A fresh look at patterns and assumptions in the field of entrepreneurship: what can we learn?

Dushnitsky, G and Matsuik, S F (2019) A fresh look at patterns and assumptions in the field of entrepreneurship: what can we learn? Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal, 13 (4). pp. 437-447. ISSN 1932-4391

Abstract

This article invites scholars to reconsider how the evolution of entrepreneurial phenomena affects the underlying theories employed in our field. We highlight three themes affected by changes to the entrepreneurial journey nowadays in a way that can challenge some foundational research in each area. To that end, we engage in a dual conversation; explicitly revisiting extant theories, as well as deliberately seeking out practice insights on how behaviors and actions are changing. This approach provides fertile ground for future work to re‐examine the theoretical assumptions we often take for granted. Such investigation can either provide fresh evidence of the robustness of extant theory, or create new pathways of inquiry. For entrepreneurship scholars who are dedicated to researching innovation and progress in firms and individuals, this is an exciting time to create innovation and progress in our field.