Introduction

In this course, we take a closer look at the entrepreneurial individual. During the course, you will be examining recent research evidence on entrepreneurial personality and behaviour, and comparing it with the views of practising entrepreneurs. Some people have strong views about the psychological and behavioural aspects of entrepreneurship and there are also many unresolved questions, for example:

• Is there such a thing as an entrepreneurial personality?
• How are entrepreneurs influenced by other people, such as friends and family?
• Can you learn to be an entrepreneur?

It is tempting to look for simple answers to these questions. However, the factors influencing entrepreneurial activity are really rather complex and the subject of continuing debate. As you begin to take a more detailed look at the evidence and arguments you may find it useful to relate them to your own experience.

This OpenLearn course is an adapted extract from the Open University course BB846 Entrepreneurship: experience and perspective .