This paper describes ten sets of theoretical sources that have either influenced social innovation or provide useful insights. It argues that although the field has been led by practice rather than theory it now needs stronger theoretical foundations in order to progess. The theoretical sources described include: theoretical perspectives on social plasticity and change; evolutionary theories; complexity theories; theories of entrepreneurship; theories of dialectical change; theories from innovation studies; theories of techno-economic paradigms; theories concerned with the ends of innovation, in particular well-being and capabilities; and epistemological approaches to social innovation. The author then describes for each case some of the main ideas and agruments, and their relevance to social innovation (and sometimes key drawbacks). Then he considers ways in which these could be systhesized into an overall framework for social innovation to generate some hypotheses to guide practice. [Adapted from author's abstract].
Mulgan, Geoff (2012) Social innovation theories : can theory catch up with practice, In: Franz, Hans-Werner; Hochgerner, Josef and Howaldt, Jürgen (eds.) Challenge social innovation : potentials for business, social entrepreneurship, welfare and civil society, Heidelberg ; New York, Springer, pp. 19-42.
Stay informed. Subscribe for project updates by e-mail.
