Thompson, Mike J.2020-01-172020-01-172017http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12424/3863527The idea of social as a modifier to innovation which is more generally used in a business or technology context is explored to uncover the motivations of actors who innovate. The rationality of the homo economicus model is challenged by evidence that the motivations behind social innovation integrate rationality with values and a sense of the common good. Statements by business leaders and case examples are reviewed to illustrate the implicit social contract in social innovation.engMacau Ricci Institutesocial innovationrationalitysocial contractSocial contractBusiness ethicsArticle