What Is Social In Social Innovation?

Abstract

The idea of social as a modifie r to innovation which is more generally used in a business or technology context is explored to uncover the motivations of actors who innovate. The rationality of the homo economicus model is challenged by evidence that the motivations behind social innovation integrate rationality with values and a sense of the common good. Statements by business leaders and case examples are reviewed to illustrate the implicit social contract in social innovation.