The Entrepreneurial Humanities: The Crucial Role of the Humanities in Enterprise and the Economy

Entrepreneurs with a humanities background are launching new businesses with success and social impact, despite being told that the arts and humanities are not the subjects to study. This book explores how a humanities background can enable entrepreneurs to thrive, highlighting the importance of critical thinking, storytelling, cultural awareness, and ethical decision-making skills.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 07 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In today's world, where technology, cryptocurrency, and a multitude of other innovations dominate the headlines, it is often perceived that being an entrepreneur requires a strong IT background. However, a growing number of humanities graduates are defying these stereotypes and launching successful businesses that not only generate profits but also have a positive social impact. This book delves into the unique advantages that a humanities background can offer entrepreneurs, highlighting how a deep understanding of human behavior, culture, and values can empower individuals to thrive in the business world.

Throughout their education, students are frequently encouraged to pursue fields like science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) to achieve world-changing outcomes or secure financial success. However, the arts and humanities are often overlooked as valuable contributors to these goals. The discussions surrounding innovation and entrepreneurship emphasize the importance of critical thinking, storytelling, cultural awareness, and ethical decision-making as essential skills for successful entrepreneurs. It is disheartening, then, that these very subjects that help develop these vital skills are often derided at critical points in an aspiring entrepreneur's education.

This collection of perspectives, featuring entrepreneurs from diverse fields and humanities educators, aims to shed light on what individuals and the wider world are missing when humanities are overlooked as a source of inspiration and success in business. By showcasing the practical value of the humanities in an increasingly mechanized world, this book serves as a thought-provoking guide for aspiring entrepreneurs across all sectors.

The foreword by Sensemaking author Christian Madsbjerg provides an insightful introduction to the book, emphasizing the importance of human-centered approaches in business and the role that the humanities can play in shaping innovative solutions.

In conclusion, the notion that being an entrepreneur requires a strong IT background is outdated and narrow-minded. Humanities graduates have the potential to make a significant impact in the business world by leveraging their unique skills and perspectives. This book serves as a testament to the value of a humanities education and provides a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs who are seeking to break down barriers and create a better future for themselves and society.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032462301