Week 2 Reading Reflection

1)What was the biggest surprise for you in the reading? In other words, what did you read that stood out the most as different from your expectations? 

What stood out to me the most from this reading was the section entitled “The Evolution of Entrepreneurship”, along with the concept of the importance that entrepreneurship has on our economy today. I had very little knowledge of entrepreneurship before entering this class, so I had been under the assumption that entrepreneurship has been an ongoing thing throughout history. Kuratko really put into perspective the importance of entrepreneurship in the twenty first century when he compared it to what the industrial revolution was for the twentieth century. This was shocking to me and I became very intrigued on the topic. As I continued to read, it was made clear how important entrepreneurship is to a growing economy. Also another fact I completely looked past before reading this text. These surprises that were brought forth in this reading has honestly influenced me to learn more about entrepreneurship.

2) Identify at least one part of the reading that was confusing to you.

One part of the reading that I found myself turning my head to and having to re-read multiple times, was the section called “The Age of the Gazelles”. It’s such a small section that is organized and laid out very well, but for some reason it was difficult for me to understand it and its importance. The concept became clear after reading it a couple of times, but I think it was the name “gazelles” that was really throwing me off. Then it was difficult for me to see the why the author added this section so abruptly. After finally understanding the small section and moving on to the next page, the author made his purpose for adding it very clear with an organized chart with the myths and connection to entrepreneurship.

3) If you were able to ask two questions to the author, what would you ask? Why?

After only reading the first chapter, I would first ask the author of his inspirations. The first chapter of the text intrigued me to analyze why people became entrepreneurs to begin with. Then I started to question if the author of this text was actually an entrepreneur himself, or what his relationship is to entrepreneurship. It would be interesting to understand what motivates and inspires him.

Another question I would ask the author is what is the importance of distinguishing between a small business owner and an entrepreneur? I use these terms interchangeably, so it was a bit of a surprise to find out there is in fact a slight distinction.

4) Was there anything you think the author was wrong about? Where do you disagree with what she or he said? How?

It’s extremely difficult for me to to question what the author is saying to form an opinion of whether I feel he is right or wrong due to my lack of knowledge in entrepreneurship. I came into this class with zero background on entrepreneurship, therefore everything I read, I believe. If I had to question one thing the author wrote, it would be the distinction between small business owners and entrepreneurship. The only reason I question this is because it’s such a gray area, I feel its very difficult to truly distinguish between a small business owner and an entrepreneur. He does very well on distinguishing how he is addressing an entrepreneur throughout the text and the difference he sees between them, and a small business owner.