Journal of Co-operative Studies, 38(2), 37-43

Abstract

In this article it is argued that behind the lack of clarity that characterises such common notions like ‘nonprofit’ and ‘third sector’, there are strong potentials for innovation and change. It is our contention that the notion of ‘nonprofit’ calls for a process of sharpening and specification capable to free it from its definitional vagueness. The notion of ‘third sector‘ awaits its inherent potential for innovation to be appreciated and developed. For such challenges to be met, there is a need for a thinking paradigm that goes beyond the conventional economic rationale, and a new terminology, beyond the mainstream economic language we are so used to. This would allow for a rethinking of the potential role of the ‘third sector’ as an optimal ground where the limitations of the first and second sectors can be averted in favour of alternative organisational solutions.