Conceptualising the entrepreneurial process using Chinese classics: a paradoxical perspective

Pi-Shen Seet

International Journal of Business and Systems Research, 2010, vol. 4, issue 5/6, 541-564

Abstract: This paper aims to build a conceptualisation of the entrepreneurial process from major Chinese classical works of thinking, a non-traditional source of management thought. In particular, it argues that a paradoxical perspective of the entrepreneurial process is an appropriate conceptualisation. It follows the perspective that there is a high component of nation-specific or culture-specific contexts in entrepreneurship. This paper covers the concept of paradox in management theory before establishing a link between paradox and the understanding of entrepreneurial phenomena in that a theory of paradoxical logic is an especially appropriate one to analyse the phenomena of creativity and innovation. Applied to two mini-case studies of Chinese entrepreneurs, it is also suggested that reconciling paradoxes is a dynamic capability that allows entrepreneurs to differentiate themselves and when used appropriately, can facilitate innovation and growth of new ventures.

Keywords: paradoxes; entrepreneurial processes; Chinese classics; cybernetics; conceptualisation; non-traditional management theories; paradoxical perspectives; nation-specific contexts; culture-specific contexts; entrepreneurship; entrepreneurs; logic; dynamic capabilities; innovation; growth; new ventures; business ventures; classical philosophy; solar panels; Suntech Corporation; V Electronics; systems research; China; strategic management. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2010
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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