Lessons from an older sibling: Social entrepreneurship and corporate social responsibility

Abstract

ABSTRACT Given the similarities that exist between two constructs—corporate social responsibility (CSR) and social entrepreneurship (SE)—we examine how CSR literature can inform the SE literature. We argue that both CSR and SE emerged from governmental failures as well as the response to the needs of societies. CSR and SE are relatively new constructs that have struggled with definitional problems. We suggest that both constructs may suffer from agency problems while leading to some unexpected benefits. By applying the lessons learned through CSR research to SE research, the development of SE literature could be accelerated, thereby improving interactions for all constituents.