Social Innovation and Gender Equality: Bridging Two Solitudes
33 Pages Posted: 6 May 2020
Date Written: December 1, 2016
Abstract
Social innovation is not new, but it is increasingly seen as an important method for solving some of the world’s most pressing social and economic problems. Despite awareness about its importance, research in the field of social innovation is scarce, and there are competing definitions and understandings of the concept. In addition, despite the value of embracing gender equality for social and economic progress, there is very little research that attempts to connect the field of social innovation with the fields of gender studies, women’s studies, feminist research, or men and masculinity studies. This article reviews the literature on social innovation to examine the relationship between gender equality and social innovation, and it applies a gender-informed lens to the concept of social innovation. In doing so, it aims to develop the foundations for future research at the intersection of social innovation and gender equality. Our review of the literature on social innovation suggests that it is not just women and girls who are under-represented in the field of social innovation, but also certain groups of men and boys, transgender and other gender-nonconforming individuals. Therefore, gender analysis will help us advance social innovation by challenging our assumptions and preconceptions about women, men, femininities, and masculinities. In order for social innovation to achieve its full potential and to benefit all persons, gender equality must be integrated into every aspect of the field.
Keywords: Innovation, Social Innovation, Gender Studies, Technology, STEM, Equity Studies, Women's Studies
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