WVU Expert Says Faith Can Lead to Social Entrepreneurship

Morgantown, Wisconsin – Religion can be a factor in future entrepreneurs’ social interests, according to researchers at West Virginia University (WVU).

“This study is about the role of religion in creating entrepreneurial ventures,” said Nancy McIntyre, associate professor of management at John Chambers College of Business and Economics. “Most of us talk about wanting to start our own business at some point in our lives, but we rarely talk about starting a business that solves a big social problem.”

The study, which will be published in the Journal of Business Research in February, found that when people have a strong religious conviction, especially a “commitment to religious principles and practices,” they are more likely to create conscientious businesses. I understand that you will get what you want.

According to WVU Today, McIntyre found that religious beliefs and practices can “promote a sense of adherents as part of a networked collective rather than as isolated individuals.” She also has the advantage of being supported by an organization based on her faith.

This religiosity is most helpful in improving a person’s self-confidence and giving them a sense of reciprocity. This is also the reason why I want to participate in social entrepreneurship.

McIntyre defined social entrepreneurship as concerned with combining financial value with a desire to help others to create both private and social value.

“Many religions teach humility, self-control and modesty, which can run counter to traditional entrepreneurship that promotes wealth accumulation, financial freedom and materialism,” McIntyre said. said. “But most religions also teach that we can and should help others. It helps us believe that we can make a difference.

According to WVU Today, to achieve her findings, “McEntire enrolled 563 third and fourth year students in marketing, finance, accounting, and human resource management programs at large public universities in Ghana. students, she asked them about topics such as confidence in dealing with difficult situations, the importance of close friendships, entrepreneurship, and the role of religion in life.”

McIntyre said he conducted his research in Ghana because it has “established religious institutions that play an important role in shaping the belief systems and values ​​of its citizens.” McIntyre also pointed out that loyal worship attendees have access to a larger network.

According to WVU Today, “Her data might look different if she surveyed participants in societies less devout than in Ghana, where 71.3% of the population was Christian in the last census. In contrast, Americans About 64% of Americans are Christian, and about 6% of Americans practice other faiths.”