Abstract: In this paper we explored Islamic Entrepreneurship (IE); a phenomenon gaining momentum in the academic circle in recent times. In particular, we looked at the following 3 aspects: definition, issues, and debates on the role of Islam. First, in contrary to what many may think of it, IE refers to entrepreneurial initiatives that obey Sharia. Thus, IE is different from Muslim entrepreneurship (abbreviated as Muslipreneurship). Although the latter phenomenon is sometimes addressed within the Islamic frame, the Islamic part applies to the owner/entrepreneurs status but not to the enterprise actions and strategies. Being a Muslim business owner does not necessarily mean the business is Sharia compliant. Both the entrepreneur behaviours and the enterprise actions and strategies must conform Sharia. Second, the issues that surround IE can be categorized into perceptual issues, practical issues and academic issues. Third, the role of Islam in entrepreneurship, and the economy in general, in Muslim countries has surged a debate that can be summarized in two different views. The first believes that Islam supports entrepreneurship whereas the second view claims that Islam, rather, discourage entrepreneurship. The paper also discusses the missing link between the distinct views.
Keywords: Islam, entrepreneurship, catalyst, barrier, business, issue, view.
Title: Islamic Entrepreneurship: Issues and Debates
Author: Tayeb Mebroui, Aissa Mosbah
International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations
ISSN 2348-7585 (Online)
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