Re-thinking the Ethics of Inclusive Innovation

Inclusive innovation, as the outcome of social enterprising, is currently considered a key mechanism towards alleviating social problems and increasing the wellbeing of the disenfranchised. It assumes that the concurrent pursuit of profit and social welfare while creating markets for the poor constitutes an efficient and inclusive way to enhance their social and economic wellbeing. Instead of creating harmony and prosperity, this approach to inclusive innovation has intensified and perpetuated social tensions, conflicts and hostility. We depart from the idea that inclusive innovation is morally and ethically neutral, to elaborate a capability-based model of inclusive innovation, that invites a rethinking of this notion from a broader approach to social justice. The model reorients determinants and emphasizes the role of realization and conversion factors in the implementation of inclusive innovations. In doing so, our work challenges the way we have framed and examined the field so far and contributes to ongoing discussions around the notions of inclusive innovation and development.