Tasksheet #5: Entrepreneurship Challenges 21st Century

What does the term 'entrepreneurship' derive from?

• A German word meaning to innovate

• An English term for business management

• A French verb meaning to undertake

• A Latin word meaning to create

Answer explanation

The term 'entrepreneurship' comes from the French verb 'entreprendre', which means 'to undertake'. This reflects the essence of entrepreneurship as taking on the responsibility of starting and managing a business.

Who introduced the modern definition of 'entrepreneurship' in 1934?

• Peter Drucker

• Joseph Schumpeter

• Alfred Marshall

• David Ricardo

Answer explanation

Joseph Schumpeter introduced the modern definition of 'entrepreneurship' in 1934, emphasizing the role of innovation and economic change driven by entrepreneurs.

According to Schumpeter, what are the five basic 'new combinations' of entrepreneurship?

• New services, new products, new methods, new markets, new supplies

• New ideas, new products, new markets, new technologies, new organizations

• New products, new markets, new organizations, new methods, new supplies

• New organizations, new methods, new products, new strategies, new markets

Answer explanation

Schumpeter identified five basic 'new combinations' of entrepreneurship: new products, new markets, new organizations, new methods, and new supplies. This choice accurately reflects his theory on innovation in business.

What does Peter Drucker suggest about entrepreneurship?

• It is a state of being

• It is characterized by planning

• It begins with action

• It is only for the wealthy

Answer explanation

Peter Drucker emphasizes that entrepreneurship starts with action, highlighting the importance of taking initiative rather than merely planning or waiting for resources. This approach makes entrepreneurship accessible to all, not just the wealthy.

Which economist first formally recognized the necessity of entrepreneurship for production?

• John Stuart Mill

• Adam Smith

• Alfred Marshall

• Joseph Schumpeter

Answer explanation

Alfred Marshall was the first economist to formally recognize the role of entrepreneurship in production, emphasizing its importance in combining resources and driving economic growth.

What does Marshall believe is the driving element behind any organization?

• Land

• Capital

• Labour

• Entrepreneurship

Answer explanation

Marshall believes that entrepreneurship is the key driving element behind any organization, as it involves the vision and initiative to create and manage resources effectively, leading to innovation and growth.

According to Marshall, what is a necessary skill for entrepreneurs?

• Ability to foresee changes in supply and demand

• Ability to manage large teams

• Ability to secure funding

• Ability to market products

Answer explanation

According to Marshall, the ability to foresee changes in supply and demand is crucial for entrepreneurs as it allows them to adapt their strategies and make informed decisions in a dynamic market.

What is the role of the entrepreneur according to Knight?

• A risk-bearer

• A market analyst

• A financial advisor

• A product developer

Answer explanation

According to Knight, the entrepreneur is primarily a risk-bearer, taking on uncertainties in the market. This distinguishes them from roles like market analysts or financial advisors, who do not assume such risks.

What does Kirzner suggest about the process of innovation?

• It is a deliberate process

• It is only for experienced entrepreneurs

• It is a spontaneous learning process

• It requires extensive planning

Answer explanation

Kirzner emphasizes that innovation is a spontaneous learning process, highlighting that it emerges from the dynamic interactions of entrepreneurs with their environment, rather than being a planned or deliberate effort.

What is 'creative imitation' in the context of entrepreneurship?

• Creating entirely new products

• Innovating without any prior knowledge

• Developing products for foreign markets

• Imitating and adapting existing products

Answer explanation

'Creative imitation' refers to the process of imitating and adapting existing products to create value. This approach allows entrepreneurs to innovate by improving upon what already exists rather than starting from scratch.