A Research Agenda for Social Innovation

Book excerpt: Elgar Research Agendas outline the future of research in a given area. Leading scholars are given the space to explore their subject in provocative ways, and map out the potential directions of travel. They are relevant but also visionary. This insightful Research Agenda offers unique perspectives into the different strands of social innovation research, covering the history and theory of this ever-growing research field. Chapters show the range and depth of the social advances that characterize this vibrant and contested subject, and analyse the strong increase in political and public interest in social innovation. Exploring the potential influence of social innovation on important social factors, the Research Agenda looks at education, poverty reduction, environmental policies, and health and social care. Contributors examine the approaches and successful initiatives that illustrate the strengths of social innovations in manifold areas and in establishing sustainable patterns of consumption, while coping with demographic change. Possible future research pathways are outlined and new topics such as social innovation ecosystems, epistemic diversities and sustainable development are examined in detail. This discerning and innovative Research Agenda will be an ideal read for social innovation researchers, policy-makers and innovation-policy stakeholders. It will be a welcome addition to the literature for innovation practitioners and entrepreneurs looking for theoretical insights into this influential subject.