Controversial Theories

This is a subjective list of the most controversial theories about entrepreneurship. These theories drive many debates in academic circles today and in the past.

Necessity Versus Opportunity Entrepreneurship
The distinction between necessity and opportunity is controversial because some entrepreneurs may start businesses out of necessity but then turn into opportunity entrepreneurs and visa-versa.

Emancipation Theory and Entrepreneurship
The emancipation theory of entrepreneurship is controversial because it posits that entrepreneurship is the road to emancipation, which is contestable.

Disruptive Innovation Theory and Entrepreneurship
The disruptive innovation theory is controversial because it lacks specificity and broad empirical support, yet remains one of the most popular theories in business today.

Stewardship Theory of Entrepreneurship
The stewardship theory of entrepreneurship is controversial because it suggests that founders should be given total authority over startups (think Elon Musk).

Jack of All Trades Theory of Entrepreneurship
The jack of all trades theory is controversial because it suggests people should vary their experiences to attain entrepreneurial skills, but evidence suggests that this may be bad advice.

Religious Theory of Entrepreneurship
The religious theory of entrepreneurship is controversial because it praises some religions as more entrepreneurial than others.

Birth Order Theory of Entrepreneurship
The birth order theory is controversial because we can't control our birth order, and most of the ideas are based on debunked Freudian speculations.

Brain Parasite Theory of Entrepreneurship
The brain parasite theory is controversial because it would seem to account for entry but not success in entrepreneurship.

The Great Man Theory of Entrepreneurship
The Great Man theory is controversial because it is sexist and elitist and ignores the contributions of the masses.

Disagreeableness Theory and Entrepreneurship
Disagreeableness theory is controversial because it paints the entrepreneur as the quintessential contrarian jerk.