Moral Entrepreneurship: Being Authentic and Using One’s Moral Compass to Navigate the Journey of Doing Good Deeds

Abstract

Research confirms more entrepreneurs emerge daily. The Kaufman Startup Index shows approximately 330 out of every 100,000 adults became new entrepreneurs each month in 2017. Additionally, research by the Harvard Pluralism Project confirms that the United States of America is one of the most religiously diverse nations on earth. With these two phenomena occurring simultaneously, it is important to have a frank conversation about the moral compass of entrepreneurs. This chapter focuses on the following five topics: The Rise of Entrepreneurs in America, Developing and Measuring Authenticity of Entrepreneurs, Socially Responsible Entrepreneurship, Defining and Measuring the Entrepreneur Moral Compass, and Additional Measurements and Theories for Entrepreneurs. The objective is to consider the moral compass point of reference and examine practical and theoretical methods to assess the authenticity, ethics, and responsibility of entrepreneurs in America. The value of this conversation is intended to open the door for intentionality and purpose of individual businesses and consumers alike.