Linteresse

Linteresse is a term used in some economic and philosophical discussions to refer to a latent or layered form of interest that extends beyond immediate financial gain. As a neologism, it is not widely defined in major dictionaries, and usage varies across scholars. The word appears to derive from the Italian interesse (interest) with an initial l- prefix to signal an added dimension, such as depth, duration, or complexity of attention.

In theoretical debates, linteresse is used to describe how individuals or organizations divide their attention and resources between short-term incentives and long-term consequences. Proponents argue that measuring linteresse can help explain decision patterns that balance profitability with sustainability, ethics, or social license to operate. In corporate governance, discussions of linteresse focus on how managers consider stakeholders, future value, and reputational capital when making strategic choices.

Critics note that the term lacks a precise, universally accepted definition and that empirical measurement is challenging. Some scholars caution that the concept risks conflating interest with values or risk tolerance, and that clear operational criteria are needed for meaningful use. In practice, linteresse has appeared mainly in theoretical essays and speculative literary or policy discussions rather than formal economic models.

See also: Interest, Stakeholder theory, Long-termism, Attention in economics.