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The impact of Greek Orthodoxy on entrepreneurship: a theoretical framework

George Gotsis (Department of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Athens, Athens, Greece)
Zoe Kortezi (Department of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Athens, Athens, Greece)

Journal of Enterprising Communities: People and Places in the Global Economy

ISSN: 1750-6204

Article publication date: 29 May 2009

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a theoretical framework for the analysis of the eventual implications of Greek Orthodoxy for business and entrepreneurial activities in general.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the basic concepts, tenets and principles – in particular, those being of interest to business and entrepreneurship – of a specific religious worldview, Greek Orthodoxy. It then applies these religious norms to value‐based entrepreneurial pursuits and assesses their potential impact on entrepreneurial motivation and action. Particular emphasis is given to the societal relevance of this comprehensive worldview. In this respect, it is argued that Greek Orthodoxy's binding principles should also be examined in their relationship with ethno‐religious communities underlying the formation of entrepreneurial networks beneficial to economic prosperity and overall welfare.

Findings

The paper conceptualises the potential benefits derived from a specific religious worldview, as well as its capacity to enrich entrepreneurial discourses. While these benefits are primarily situated at the individual level (at least to the degree to which religious beliefs can inform decisions), there is a rationale in viewing religious truth claims as constituent of ethno‐religious identities of both local and immigrant communities. Propositions exemplifying the behaviour of entrepreneurs who draw from such important ethic and religious resources are also offered. Limitations of the present study, as well as areas of prospective research, are equally taken into consideration.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to offer a tentative framework epitomising the significance of Greek Orthodoxy for the world of business and entrepreneurship. It further provides the theoretical foundations of future empirical research on religious‐based entrepreneurial attitudes in the wider context of Eastern Orthodoxy.

Keywords

Citation

Gotsis, G. and Kortezi, Z. (2009), "The impact of Greek Orthodoxy on entrepreneurship: a theoretical framework", Journal of Enterprising Communities: People and Places in the Global Economy, Vol. 3 No. 2, pp. 152-175. https://doi.org/10.1108/17506200910960851

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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