Skip to content

One of the newest figures to emerge on the world stage in…

“One of the newest figures to emerge on the world stage in recent years is the social entrepreneur. This is usually someone who burns with desire to make a positive social impact on the world, but believes that the best way of doing it is, as the saying goes, not by giving poor people a fish and…” quote by Thomas L. Friedman
Download Open image
““One of the newest figures to emerge on the world stage in recent years is the social entrepreneur. This is usually someone who burns with desire to make a positive social impact on the world, but believes that the best way of doing it is, as the saying goes, not by giving poor people a fish and feeding them for a day, but by teaching them to fish, in hopes of feeding them for a lifetime. I have come to know several social entrepreneurs in recent years, and most combine a business school brain with a social worker's heart. The triple convergence and the flattening of the world have been a godsend for them. Those who get it and are adapting to it have begun launching some very innovative projects.””

Thomas L. Friedman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage defines social entrepreneurs as driven individuals who combine business acumen with a compassionate mission, using sustainable solutions rather than short‑term aid.

In simple terms: Social entrepreneurs blend profit skills and social heart to create lasting impact.

Key Takeaway

Focus on sustainable empowerment, not just charity.

Themes

entrepreneurship social impact innovation globalization education

Mood

optimistic pragmatic

Type

inspirational analytical

When to use this quote

  • non‑profit startups
  • micro‑finance
  • skill training
  • community projects
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

social enterprise systems thinking capacity building

Questions to Reflect On

  • What resources are essential for social entrepreneurs to thrive?
  • How can traditional businesses adopt a social mission?
A Different Perspective

Success depends on market conditions and supportive ecosystems, which may be lacking.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Thomas L. Friedman

Explore all 63 Thomas L. Friedman quotes

More Business quotes

Browse all 39,016 Business quotes