To define is to confine—and like the heffalump, the entrepreneur isn’t easy to encage or identify
For over two centuries, economists, psychologists, and sociologists have struggled to define "entrepreneur," each applying distinct perspectives. The concept, likened to a "heffalump," evolved from uncertainty-bearer to innovator and opportunity-seeker, incorporating social and psychological traits. The author suggests shifting focus from "who an entrepreneur is" to "what entrepreneurial action entails." Entrepreneurship is viewed as a learnable discipline requiring a bias for action. Given diverse entrepreneurial forms today, a single definition proves inadequate. Understanding *how* entrepreneurs act, and supporting their actions, is presented as more valuable for scholars and policymakers.
LiveMint · Suresh Bhagavatula · Apr 30, 2026 at 10:30 AM