social responsibility essay conclusion

Essay on Social Responsibility

Social responsibility is a term that has been used in different contexts, including the economy, education, politics , and religion. Social responsibility is challenging because it encompasses so many aspects, and there is no single definition of social responsibility. In simple words, social responsibility is the responsibility of an individual to act in a way that promotes social well-being. This means that a person has a sense of obligation to society and sacrifices for the good of others. BYJU’S essay on social responsibility explains the importance of being a socially responsible citizen.

A society’s responsibility to the individuals in that society can be seen through the various social programmes and laws. Governments try to create a better world for their citizens, so they implement various social programmes like welfare, tax assistance, and unemployment benefits. Laws are also crucial to a society because they enforce practical actions by its citizens and punish harmful actions. Now, let us understand the significance of social responsibility by reading a short essay on social responsibility.

Importance of Social Responsibility

BYJU’S essay on social responsibility highlights the importance of doing good deeds for society. The short essay lists different ways people can contribute to social responsibility, such as donating time and money to charities and giving back by visiting places like hospitals or schools. This essay discusses how companies can support specific causes and how people can be actively involved in volunteering and organisations to help humanitarian efforts.

Social responsibility is essential in many aspects of life. It helps to bring people together and also promotes respect for others. Social responsibility can be seen in how you treat other people, behave outside of work, and contribute to the world around you. In addition, there are many ways to be responsible for the protection of the environment, and recycling is one way. It is crucial to recycle materials to conserve resources, create less pollution, and protect the natural environment.

Society is constantly changing, and the way people live their lives may also vary. It is crucial to keep up with new technology so that it doesn’t negatively impact everyone else. Social responsibility is key to making sure that society is prosperous. For example, social media has created a platform for people to share their experiences and insights with other people. If a company were going to develop a new product or service, it would be beneficial for them to survey people about what they think about the idea before implementing it because prior knowledge can positively impact future decisions.

Social responsibility is essential because it creates a sense of responsibility to the environment . It can lead to greater trust among members of society. Another reason is that companies could find themselves at a competitive disadvantage if they do not ensure their practices are socially responsible. Moreover, companies help people in need through money, time, and clothing, which is a great way to showcase social responsibility.

Being socially responsible is a great responsibility of every human being, and we have briefly explained this in the short essay on social responsibility. Moreover, being socially responsible helps people upgrade the environment and society. For more essays, click on BYJU’S kids learning activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does being socially responsible help in protecting the environment.

Yes. Being socially responsible helps in protecting the environment.

Why should we be socially responsible?

We should be socially responsible because it is the right thing to upgrade society and the environment. Another reason is to help those in need because when more people have jobs, the economy can thrive, and people will have more opportunities.

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Essays on Social Responsibility

The importance of sociological theories.

Social responsibility is a modern philosophy that states that all individuals and organizations are obligated to help the community at large. This is typically an active effort involving acting against a social issue or prevention of committing harmful acts to the environment. Many companies and individuals engage in social responsibility because of its benefits on their immediate community as well as their business and profitability. It is an ongoing topic in society with many questions available for discussion.

Argumentative Essay

Social responsibility is an ideal topic for debate; there have been mixed results for companies and individuals who have pursued social responsibility. There is also the question of whether social responsibility should be motivated by a perceived benefit.This type of essay is based on philosophical theories on the necessity of social responsibility backed up with facts about previous social responsibility efforts. For example, an essay could be about how giving support to disaster victims can significantly boost an entity's professional image.

Analytical Essay

Social responsibility is a broad field of study; there are numerous factors to analyze in determining which mix of factors will have the highest chance of a successful social responsibility effort. For example, an author can look into the different types of philanthropy that address a social injustice, including: giving monetary gifts, hosting social awareness events and starting a sub-organization which addresses the issue at hand. Each type of social effort may have varying levels of effectiveness depending on the people’s acceptance and the complexity of the issue itself.

There are an abundant number of social responsibility campaigns enacted by different companies and individuals. Authors choose a particular entity and write a case study about that entity’s social responsibility efforts. This includes researching the motivation behind the effort, analyzing the program execution and judging the overall social impact of the campaign. Moreover, the essay can also highlight how the social responsibility effort directly affected the entity itself. Some common methods include doing a profitability comparison before and after the social responsibility campaign and conducting a qualitative study of how the campaign improves the entity’s image and reputation.

Future Application

Social responsibility is a highly evolving topic. Given the reported indirect benefits of social responsibility, there is a growing argument of how it should become a new form of business. Based on the original philosophy of social responsibility, this type of essay discusses the outlook on the integration of social responsibility in the work force. Some topics include the feasibility of a pure social responsibility company, ways for a single company to efficiently help macro audiences such as third world countries, or the possibility of legally enforcing social responsibility efforts from all companies.

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• "Essays on Efficiency Measurement and Corporate Social Responsibility"; Constantin Belu; 2009
• "Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility"; Daniel E. Wueste; 1994
• "Corporate Social Responsibility"; Philip Kotler; 2005

Raleigh Kung has been a social-media specialist and copywriter since 2010. He has worked with various companies on their online marketing campaigns and keeps a blog about social-media platforms. Now, he mainly writes about online media and education for various websites. Kung holds a master's degree in management and entrepreneurship from the University of San Francisco.

Essays About Responsibility: Top 12 Examples and Prompts

We can’t take on the challenge of life without responsibility; If you are writing essays about responsibility, discover our guide below.

The word responsibility describes the state of being accountable for our actions and is one of the main elements that make us human. We are not born with it; instead, it is something to be exercised and improved on over time.

It has often been said that with power or freedom comes responsibility, which could not be more truthful. Each of us is gifted with the ability to make choices, and we are considered superior to all other living things on this planet. However, we have to make informed choices and be responsible for our actions, whether to ourselves, the people around us, and our environment.

5 Top Essay Examples

1. the value of responsibility by simon baker, 2. freedom is not the lack of constraint, but the exercise of responsibility by beulah west, 3. why responsibility is so important by steve rose.

• 4.  The Beneifts of Being Responsible by Frank Terzo
• 5. ​​What It’s like to Feel Responsible for Everything by Duncan Riach

1. The Importance of Responsibility

2. dealing with false responsibility, 3. freedom and responsibility, 4. what is social responsibility, 5. what are your responsibilities, 6. responsibility as a component of success, 7. a time you acted responsibly.

“It’s easy for us to become blinkered or out-of-touch when we’re constantly working with our heads down. Although meeting our commitments is hugely important we bear another responsibility, that is to invest in ourselves and in each other. When we can free our imagination and refresh our minds, we restore perspective and reduce stress. We find time and space to explore new ways to collaborate, be creative and enjoy ourselves to the benefit of our mission.”

Baker writes about why he thinks responsibility is important and discusses factors related to responsibility, namely trust, personal choice, and freedom. A feeling of trust allows you to be more comfortable accepting responsibility, while responsibility allows us to maximize personal choice and freedom. Most importantly, bearing responsibility means freeing our minds, enjoying life, and coming up with great ideas. 

“A lack of constraint means that you can not do everything that you want. In a perfect world this would be fine, but we don’t live in a perfect world. However everyone’s view of a perfect world is different, if this coincides with the law and you are happy, then you can be free still living under laws and legislations. If you believe that freedom is making your own choices then the only way that we can be “free” is if society does not exist.”

West discusses how just as personal freedom is vital to a healthy society, so is accountability for our actions. Freedom also has a negative side; it can be described as a lack of constraint in our choices. Without constraint, our actions may hurt others or even ourselves. Therefore, it must come with the responsibility to make these choices from a more thoughtful, educated perspective. 

You might also be interested in our list of essays about effective leadership . You can also check out these articles and essays about attitude .

“Taking responsibility creates long term resilience and a sense of purpose. This sense of purpose can be fostered by taking responsibility for one’s self by engaging in self-care. Responsibility can also be developed on a familial and societal level, offering a sense of purpose proportional to your ability to contribute your unique abilities.”

Rose explores the importance of being responsible for one’s health. It gives us a sense of purpose and helps us build resilience; however, we must first be responsible for ourselves by practicing self-care. This includes resting, exercising, taking breaks, and going to the doctor if something is bothering us. This makes us more responsible for the people around us, allowing us to perform different societal roles. You might be inspired by these essays about success and essays about overcoming challenges .

4.   The Beneifts of Being Responsible by Frank Terzo

“If we take care of our commitments, even if it something we might like to ignore, we feel better about ourselves. Each step we take towards being responsible and productive helps to raise our self-esteem and our relationships with friends, family and co-workers improve ten-fold. Being responsible pays big dividends – we have much less stress and chaos in our lives and we gain the respect of others.”

In this short essay, Terzo provides insight into the many benefits responsibility can provide you with. We must always be responsible, even if we might not feel like it, because it can improve our productivity, self-esteem, relationships with others, and overall peace. Though it might not always be easy, responsibility is key to achieving a happy life. 

5. ​​ What It’s like to Feel Responsible for Everything by Duncan Riach

“I hold responsibility when others are not taking responsibility. I was holding all of the responsibility, guilt, and shame that Billy McFarland was disowning. It’s a survival mechanism that I developed when I was a child. I had a step-father who was some form of psychopath or malignant narcissist, a person who was completely out of control and completely irresponsible. The only way that I could feel safe in that environment was to try to hold the responsibility myself.”

Riach reflects on a habit by which he constantly felt responsible for things out of his control, things as minor as events he saw on television. He developed this habit due to his upbringing- his childhood and family life were less than ideal. He is fully aware of his problem but still struggles with it. His case is an excellent example of false responsibility. 

6 Writing Prompts on Essays About Responsibility

Responsibility is, without a doubt, essential, but how important is it really? Reflect on the meaning of responsibility and explain its importance. Discuss this from a practical and personal standpoint; combine personal experience and research as the basis for your points. 

False responsibility is an attitude by which one feels responsible for things they are not. This is a widespread issue that encompasses everyone, from humble workers to some of the most influential people in the world. For your essay, research this phenomenon, then define it and explain why it occurs. Give suggestions on how one can identify false responsibility and work to stop feeling that way. 

The topics of freedom and personal responsibility are deeply intertwined; for freedom to work correctly, there must be a certain level of responsibility instilled in people so society can function correctly. In your essay, discuss these two concepts and their connection. Do proper research on this topic, then conclude this issue: are we responsible enough to be given total freedom? You may also link this to topics such as the law and regulations. You might be inspired by these essays about goals .

Social Responsibility seems straightforward and self-defining, but it is broad, especially with society putting a higher value on awareness, community, and social justice. Research this term and its history and discuss it in your essay; define and explain it, then describe what it means. 

Whether in your studies or at work, as a family member, friend, or even a member of society, we have a unique set of responsibilities that vary depending on the person. Reflect on the different roles you play in life and decide what your responsibilities are. Briefly describe each one and explain how you fulfill these responsibilities. You can also check out these essays about conflict .

This value is important because it is present in all successful individuals. Based on your opinions and research, discuss the relationship between responsibility, success, and some other factors or traits that influence success. Give examples of successful people who have shown responsibility, such as government officials, celebrities, and business leaders. 

When we are responsible, we are pretty proud of ourselves most of the time. Think of an experience you are most proud of in which you acted responsibly. Retell the story, reflect on how you felt, and explain why it is important- be as detailed as possible. Or, you may opt to do the opposite, telling the story of a time you did not show responsibility and thinking of what you would do if given a chance to repeat it. 

Grammarly is one of our top grammar checkers. Find out why in this Grammarly review . Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

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Essay on Responsibility

Students are often asked to write an essay on Responsibility in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Responsibility

Understanding responsibility.

Responsibility means being accountable for our actions. It involves making decisions and facing the consequences. It’s a vital life skill, crucial for personal growth.

Types of Responsibility

Responsibility can be personal or social. Personal responsibility involves self-care, while social responsibility involves caring for others and the environment.

Importance of Responsibility

Being responsible helps in building trust and respect. It also aids in developing self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

In conclusion, responsibility shapes our character. It’s a key to success, making us reliable and respected individuals.

Also check:

• 10 Lines on Responsibility
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250 Words Essay on Responsibility

Responsibility is a multifaceted concept that encompasses moral, social, and personal dimensions. It is the obligation to carry out tasks and roles effectively and efficiently, and it is integral to the development of an individual’s character and societal structure.

Moral Responsibility

Moral responsibility refers to the duty one has towards oneself and others, encapsulating the principles of honesty, integrity, and fairness. It involves making conscientious decisions that respect the rights and welfare of others. For instance, a journalist has a moral responsibility to report news objectively, without bias or distortion.

Social Responsibility

On a broader scale, social responsibility concerns the obligations individuals or organizations have towards society. It includes actions that contribute to the welfare of the community, such as volunteering, environmental conservation, or philanthropy. Corporations, too, bear social responsibility, aiming to minimize their negative impact on society while maximizing their positive contributions.

Personal Responsibility

Personal responsibility, meanwhile, involves acknowledging and fulfilling personal commitments and obligations. It is about taking ownership of one’s actions and their consequences. For example, a student has a personal responsibility to complete their assignments on time and to the best of their ability.

The Importance of Responsibility

Responsibility is pivotal in shaping a just and harmonious society. It fosters trust, cooperation, and respect among individuals and groups. Moreover, it promotes personal growth, self-discipline, and resilience. Embracing responsibility, therefore, is a stepping stone towards personal success and societal progress.

In conclusion, responsibility is a cornerstone of ethical conduct and social cohesion. It is an attribute that should be cultivated and cherished for the betterment of individuals and society at large.

500 Words Essay on Responsibility

Introduction.

Responsibility is a fundamental concept that permeates all aspects of life. It is a principle that guides our actions, decisions, and relationships, shaping our character and defining who we are as individuals and as members of society. Understanding responsibility and its implications is crucial to personal development and social cohesion.

Conceptualizing Responsibility

Responsibility is a multifaceted construct. It can be seen as a duty or obligation, an expectation to perform certain tasks or uphold specific standards. It can also be understood as accountability, the acceptance of the consequences of our actions. Responsibility implies a moral dimension, an ethical commitment to do what is right and fair.

Personal responsibility involves taking charge of one’s own actions, decisions, and their outcomes. It is about owning up to mistakes, learning from them, and striving to do better. Personal responsibility is a cornerstone of self-improvement and personal growth. It promotes self-efficacy, self-respect, and integrity.

Beyond the personal realm, responsibility also has a social dimension. Social responsibility refers to the duties and obligations we have towards others and society at large. It is about contributing to the common good, respecting the rights of others, and promoting social justice. Social responsibility fosters empathy, cooperation, and social harmony.

Responsibility and Freedom

Responsibility is intrinsically linked to freedom. With freedom comes responsibility. The more freedom we have, the more responsibility we bear for our actions. Conversely, the more responsible we are, the more freedom we are likely to enjoy. Responsibility and freedom are thus two sides of the same coin, mutually reinforcing and interdependent.

Challenges and Opportunities

Responsibility, while fundamentally important, is not always easy to uphold. It requires self-discipline, moral courage, and a sense of duty. It can sometimes be burdensome and demanding. However, responsibility also presents opportunities. It empowers us to shape our destiny, to make a difference, and to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life.

In conclusion, responsibility is a powerful principle that governs our actions and shapes our character. It is a duty, an accountability, and a moral commitment. It is about taking charge of our actions, contributing to the common good, and respecting the rights of others. Responsibility is a challenge, but also an opportunity. It is a pathway to personal growth, social harmony, and a fulfilling life. Embracing responsibility is thus not only a personal choice but a societal imperative.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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The Truth About CSR

• V. Kasturi Rangan,
• Lisa Chase,
• Sohel Karim

Despite the widely accepted ideal of “shared value,” research led by Harvard Business School’s Kasturi Rangan suggests that this is not the norm—and that’s OK. Most companies practice a multifaceted version of CSR that spans theaters ranging from pure philanthropy to environmental sustainability to the explicitly strategic. To maximize their impact, companies must ensure that initiatives in the various theaters form a unified platform. Four steps can help them do so:

Pruning and aligning programs within theaters. Companies must examine their existing programs in each theater, reducing or eliminating those that do not address an important social or environmental problem in keeping with the firm’s business purpose and values.

Developing metrics to gauge performance. Just as the goals of programs vary from theater to theater, so do the definitions of success.

Coordinating programs across theaters. This does not mean that all initiatives necessarily address the same problem; it means that they are mutually reinforcing and form a cogent whole.

Developing an interdisciplinary CSR strategy. The range of purposes underlying initiatives in different theaters and the variation in how those initiatives are managed pose major barriers for many firms. Strategy development can be top-down or bottom-up, but ongoing communication is key.

These practices have helped companies including PNC Bank, IKEA, and Ambuja Cements bring discipline and coherence to their CSR portfolios.

Most of these programs aren’t strategic—and that’s OK.

Idea in Brief

The problem.

Many companies’ CSR initiatives are disparate and uncoordinated, run by a variety of managers without the active engagement of the CEO. Such firms cannot maximize their positive impact on the social and environmental systems in which they operate.

The Solution

Firms must develop coherent CSR strategies, with activities typically divided among three theaters of practice. Theater one focuses on philanthropy, theater two on improving operational effectiveness, and theater three on transforming the business model to create shared value.

Companies must prune existing programs in each theater to align them with the firm’s purpose and values; develop ways of measuring initiatives’ success; coordinate programs across theaters; and create an interdisciplinary management team to drive CSR strategy.

Most companies have long practiced some form of corporate social and environmental responsibility with the broad goal, simply, of contributing to the well-being of the communities and society they affect and on which they depend. But there is increasing pressure to dress up CSR as a business discipline and demand that every initiative deliver business results. That is asking too much of CSR and distracts from what must be its main goal: to align a company’s social and environmental activities with its business purpose and values. If in doing so CSR activities mitigate risks, enhance reputation, and contribute to business results, that is all to the good. But for many CSR programs, those outcomes should be a spillover, not their reason for being. This article explains why firms must refocus their CSR activities on this fundamental goal and provides a systematic process for bringing coherence and discipline to CSR strategies.

• VR V. Kasturi Rangan is a Baker Foundation Professor at Harvard Business School and a cofounder and cochair of the HBS Social Enterprise Initiative.
• Lisa Chase is a research associate at Harvard Business School and a freelance consultant.
• SK Sohel Karim is a cofounder and the managing director of Socient Associates, a social enterprise consulting firm.

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5 Examples of Corporate Social Responsibility That Were Successful

• 06 Jun 2019

Business is about more than just making a profit. Climate change, economic inequality, and other global challenges that impact communities worldwide have compelled companies to be purpose-driven and contribute to the greater good .

In a recent study by Deloitte , 93 percent of business leaders said they believe companies aren't just employers, but stewards of society. In addition, 95 percent reported they’re planning to take a stronger stance on large-scale issues in the coming years and devote significant resources to socially responsible initiatives. With more CEOs turning their focus to the long term, it’s important to consider what you can do in your career to make an impact .

Access your free e-book today.

What Is Corporate Social Responsibility?

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business model in which for-profit companies seek ways to create social and environmental benefits while pursuing organizational goals, like revenue growth and maximizing shareholder value .

Today’s organizations are implementing extensive corporate social responsibility programs, with many companies dedicating C-level executive roles and entire departments to social and environmental initiatives. These executives are commonly referred to as a chief officer of corporate social responsibility or chief sustainability officer (CSO).

There are many types of corporate social responsibility and CSR might look different for each organization, but the end goal is always the same: Do well by doing good . Companies that embrace corporate social responsibility aim to maintain profitability while supporting a larger purpose.

Rather than simply focusing on generating profit, or the bottom line, socially responsible companies are concerned with the triple bottom line , which considers the impact that business decisions have on profit, people, and the planet.

It’s no coincidence that some of today’s most profitable organizations are also socially responsible. Here are five examples of successful corporate social responsibility you can use to drive social change at your organization.

5 Corporate Social Responsibility Examples

1. lego’s commitment to sustainability.

As one of the most reputable companies in the world, Lego aims to not only help children develop through creative play, but foster a healthy planet.

Lego is the first, and only, toy company to be named a World Wildlife Fund Climate Savers Partner , marking its pledge to reduce its carbon impact. And its commitment to sustainability extends beyond its partnerships.

By 2030, the toymaker plans to use environmentally friendly materials to produce all of its core products and packaging—and it’s already taken key steps to achieve that goal.

Over the course of 2013 and 2014, Lego shrunk its box sizes by 14 percent , saving approximately 7,000 tons of cardboard. Then, in 2018, the company introduced 150 botanical pieces made from sustainably sourced sugarcane —a break from the petroleum-based plastic typically used to produce the company’s signature building blocks. The company has also recently committed to removing all single-use plastic packaging from its materials by 2025, among other initiatives .

Along with these changes, the toymaker has committed to investing $164 million into its Sustainable Materials Center , where researchers are experimenting with bio-based materials that can be implemented into the production process.

Through all of these initiatives, Lego is well on its way to tackling pressing environmental challenges and furthering its mission to help build a more sustainable future.

Related : What Does "Sustainability" Mean in Business?

2. Salesforce’s 1-1-1 Philanthropic Model

Beyond being a leader in the technology space, cloud-based software giant Salesforce is a trailblazer in the realm of corporate philanthropy.

Since its outset, the company has championed its 1-1-1 philanthropic model , which involves giving one percent of product, one percent of equity, and one percent of employees’ time to communities and the nonprofit sector.

To date, Salesforce employees have logged more than 5 million volunteer hours . Not only that, but the company has awarded upwards of $406 million in grants and donated to more than 40,000 nonprofit organizations and educational institutions.

In addition, through its work with San Francisco Unified and Oakland Unified School Districts, Salesforce has helped reduce algebra repeat rates and contributed to a high percentage of students receiving A’s or B’s in computer science classes.

As the company’s revenue continues to grow, Salesforce stands as a prime example of the idea that profit-making and social impact initiatives don’t have to be at odds with one another.

3. Ben & Jerry’s Social Mission

At Ben & Jerry’s, positively impacting society is just as important as producing premium ice cream.

In 2012, the company became a certified B Corporation , a business that balances purpose and profit by meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability.

As part of its overarching commitment to leading with progressive values, the ice cream maker established the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation in 1985, an organization dedicated to supporting grassroots movements that drive social change.

Each year, the foundation awards approximately $2.5 million in grants to organizations in Vermont and across the United States. Grant recipients have included the United Workers Association, a human rights group striving to end poverty, and the Clean Air Coalition, an environmental health and justice organization based in New York.

The foundation’s work earned it a National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy Award in 2014, and it continues to sponsor efforts to find solutions to systemic problems at both local and national levels.

Related : How to Create Social Change: 4 Business Strategies

4. Levi Strauss’s Social Impact

In addition to being one of the most successful fashion brands in history, Levi’s is also one of the first to push for a more ethical and sustainable supply chain.

In 1991, the brand created its Terms of Engagement , which established its global code of conduct regarding its supply chain and set standards for workers’ rights, a safe work environment, and an environmentally-friendly production process.

To maintain its commitment in a changing world, Levi’s regularly updates its Terms of Engagement. In 2011, on the 20th anniversary of its code of conduct, Levi’s announced its Worker Well-being initiative to implement further programs focused on the health and well-being of supply chain workers.

Since 2011, the Worker Well-being initiative has been expanded to 12 countries and more than 100,000 workers have benefited from it. In 2016, the brand scaled up the initiative, vowing to expand the program to more than 300,000 workers and produce more than 80 percent of its product in Worker Well-being factories by 2025.

For its continued efforts to maintain the well-being of its people and the environment, Levi’s was named one of Engage for Good’s 2020 Golden Halo Award winners, which is the highest honor reserved for socially responsible companies.

5. Starbucks’s Commitment to Ethical Sourcing

Starbucks launched its first corporate social responsibility report in 2002 with the goal of becoming as well-known for its CSR initiatives as for its products. One of the ways the brand has fulfilled this goal is through ethical sourcing.

In 2015, Starbucks verified that 99 percent of its coffee supply chain is ethically sourced , and it seeks to boost that figure to 100 percent through continued efforts and partnerships with local coffee farmers and organizations.

The brand bases its approach on Coffee and Farmer Equity (CAFE) Practices , one of the coffee industry’s first set of ethical sourcing standards created in collaboration with Conservation International . CAFE assesses coffee farms against specific economic, social, and environmental standards, ensuring Starbucks can source its product while maintaining a positive social impact.

For its work, Starbucks was named one of the world’s most ethical companies in 2021 by Ethisphere.

The Value of Being Socially Responsible

As these firms demonstrate , a deep and abiding commitment to corporate social responsibility can pay dividends. By learning from these initiatives and taking a values-driven approach to business, you can help your organization thrive and grow, even as it confronts global challenges.

Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of the broader social and political landscape in which your organization operates? Explore our three-week Sustainable Business Strategy course and other online courses regarding business in society to learn more about how business can be a catalyst for system-level change.

This post was updated on April 15, 2022. It was originally published on June 6, 2019.

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• < Previous chapter

28 Conclusion

Andrew Crane is the George R. Gardiner Professor of Business Ethics in the Schulich School of Business at York University. He has a Ph.D. in Management from the University of Nottingham, and was previously Chair in Business Ethics and Director of the UK's first MBA in CSR in the International Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility at Nottingham University Business School.

Abagail McWilliams, Associate Dean and Professor in the College of Business, University of Illinois at Chicago

Dirk Matten holds the Hewlett-Packard Chair in Corporate Social Responsibility at the Schulich School of Business, York University, Toronto. He holds a doctoral degree and the habilitation from Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Germany. He is interested in CSR, business ethics and comparative management. He has published widely, including in Academy of Management Review, Journal of Management Studies, Organization Studies, and Business Ethics Quarterly.

Jeremy Moon is Professor of Corporate Social Responsibility and Director of the International Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility at Nottingham University Business School.

Donald S. Siegel, Foundation Professor of Public Policy and Management and Director, School of Public Affairs, Arizona State University

• Published: 02 September 2009
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As a field of inquiry, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is still in an embryonic stage. The study of CSR has been hampered by a lack of consensus on the definition of the phenomenon, unifying theory, measures, and unsophisticated empirical methods. Globalization has also added to the complexity of CSR issues to be addressed. Despite these concerns, there is still some excellent research on this topic, which has been gathered in this volume. Specifically, this volume contains findings from numerous experts in a wide variety of social science disciplines and fields in business administration, who have summarized the body of CSR literature and also outlined an agenda for additional research. It is important to note that CSR practices and product features are not always totally transparent and observable to the consumer and other stakeholders. This makes it difficult for consumers and other stakeholders to evaluate the firm's social performance.

Introduction

As a field of inquiry, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is still in an embryonic stage. The study of CSR has been hampered by a lack of consensus on the definition of the phenomenon, unifying theory, measures, and unsophisticated empirical methods. Globalization has also added to the complexity of CSR issues to be addressed.

Despite these concerns, there is still some excellent research on this topic, which we have gathered in this volume. Specifically, the volume contains findings from numerous experts in a wide variety of social science disciplines and fields in business administration, who have summarized the body of CSR literature and also outlined an agenda for additional research.

Given that we have included many perspectives on CSR, readers with a specific ideological or disciplinary orientation will encounter chapters that correspond with their view of CSR. At the same time, they will also be exposed to new perspectives on CSR.

We suspect that most business schools academics who teach courses in CSR or who conduct research on this topic will find the conclusion that firms can ‘do well by doing good’ quite appealing. Neoclassical economists will also accept this argument, especially if it can be framed in such a way as to justify the existence of a rational, economic justification for ‘doing good’ (McWilliams and Siegel, 2001) . Conversely, such academics will dislike the call for broader involvement in social responsibility, such as corporate citizenship implies.

On the other hand, those academics who advocate government intervention in the realm of CSR may ‘dislike’ the positive relationship between doing good and doing well, because it obviates the need for additional regulation vis‐à‐vis CSR. Conversely, they will support the notion, which was discussed in several chapters, for additional discretionary spending on CSR by business.

We hope this heterogeneity in perspectives and paradigms results in rich discussion and additional interdisciplinary research on this topic. From a practitioner standpoint, there may be very different reactions from US businesses (which emphasize stockholder rights) and non‐US businesses (which may emphasize a balance of stakeholder rights). Some mutual understanding may lead to more consistency of CSR actions globally.

The authors in this volume provide insights on many concepts and descriptions of the state of knowledge and practice of social responsibility over a wide range of countries and regions. With that in mind, we review some of the important contributions of this volume.

Defining Corporate Social Responsibility and Related Concepts

In addition to having no consensus definition of CSR, there are multiple related concepts and terms that are sometimes used interchangeably with CSR. CSR is typically used to consider and or evaluate the effects of business on society, beyond the traditional role of seeking to maximize profits. These may include such effects as support of charitable and educational organizations, hiring and training of hard‐core unemployed, non‐discrimination in employment, improved workplace safety, development of green technologies, use of non‐animal testing processes, increased consumer protection, and transparency in reporting. Definitions of CSR can be found in this volume in the chapters by Carroll; Dunfee; Frederick; Mackey, Mackey, and Barney; Orlitzky; and Salazar and Husted.

The definition of CSR often depends on motivation, that is, whether an effect such as the development of a green technology was motivated by a concern for the environment or simply as a means to reduce the cost of environment compliance (deceasing costs and increasing profits). Motivation is inherently unobservable, therefore a related concept, corporate social performance (CSP), which is defined in terms of observed CSR policies, processes, and outcomes, was developed. This concept has several weaknesses, not least of which is its reliance on the concept of the ill‐defined CSR. However, many researchers have used this concept, rooted in sociology, to test the relationship between firms doing good (CSP) and doing well (corporate financial performance or CFP). Definitions of CSP are found in chapters by Melé and Orlitzky, while definitions of CFP are found in chapters by Carroll and Orlitzky.

While also sometimes used interchangeably with CSR, corporate citizenship (CC), which has its roots in political science, is a broader concept than CSR. It considers the role of corporations as social institutions and their ability to respond to non‐market pressures, especially in a global context. In this volume, discussions of CC are found in the chapters by Frederick, Melé, Orlitzky, and Windsor.

Another related, but not synonymous concept, is that of socially responsible investing (SRI), which has roots in religion, ethics, economics, and political science. SRI differs from the other concepts addressed in this volume, because it is a way for stakeholders to control the socially responsible behavior of managers by determining the incentives for such behavior. A definition of SRI is found in the chapter by Kurtz.

Reviewing and Expanding Perspectives on Corporate Social Responsibility

A dominant perspective in CSR research and practice is the business case, which has its roots in economics, especially the theory of the firm. The business case is that firms ‘do well’ (financially) by ‘doing good’ (acting responsibly). The mechanism by which ‘doing good’ is translated into ‘doing well’ has been open to discussion, both from a theoretical perspective and based on a critique of the empirical evidence. Kurucz, Colbert, and Wheeler address the means by which firms benefit by ‘doing good’ and argue for ‘building a better case’, which ‘would extend beyond the economic’ in their chapter.

Another economic concept, agency theory, has been used to argue against managers engaging in CSR. This perspective, advanced by Friedman (1970) , asserts that managers who engage in CSR are acting in their own self‐interest, rather than in the interest of shareholders (the owners of the firm). Therefore, CSR is not good business practice. Salazar and Husted extend this analysis by outlining an agency theory model, where the pursuit of CSR can be an appropriate business practice.

An alternative theory is that of stakeholder management, which has its roots in ethics (rights and justice). Stakeholder theory posits that many stakeholders, not just shareholders, are affected by the actions of firms, and therefore also have rights. The chapters by Melé and Carroll constitute an in‐depth analysis of stakeholder theory.

A more extensive and inclusive theory of CSR (sometimes referred to as CC) has its roots in political science and argues that business firms are citizens, with both rights and responsibilities. The responsibilities of firms include both the economic and social welfare of other citizens. This concept extends the responsibilities of firms beyond those of stakeholders to all citizens. This conceptualization is especially important in developing countries where the governments might not offer protection of human rights and there may be insufficient regulation of environmental, employment, and consumer impacts. A discussion of these issues is found in the chapters by Frederick, Levy and Kaplan, Melé, Millington, Scherer and Palazzo, and Visser.

Levels of Analysis

One of the most challenging aspects of developing a unified theory of CSR is that studies of this phenomenon have been conducted at numerous levels of aggregation: individual actor (manager or employee), organization, industry, nation, region, and global. Each of these levels of analysis is represented in this volume.

Individual actors are at the center of the controversy surrounding CSR. While firms may be legal entities and may be thought of as having identities and citizenship rights, it is individual managers who make decisions about firms' actions, including allocating resources to CSR. Several motives for engaging in CSR have been recognized, including personal preference, career enhancement, stakeholder coercion, moral leadership, reputation building and profit enhancement. Mackey, Mackey, and Barney examine the correlation between managers' commitment to socially responsible causes and the activities of the firm, while Salazar and Husted propose a model for creating incentives for managers to engage in CSR. Windsor's chapter is devoted to examining how responsible management is taught.

Most CSR studies have been based on the firm as the unit of observation. This is entirely appropriate, since most CSR‐related decisions are made at the corporate level. Furthermore, while there is substantial turnover among senior managers, large firms continue to operate and affect our lives. It is also easier to identify actions with the firm rather than with individual decision‐makers. Carroll presents a comprehensive history of firm‐level CSR. In examining the business case for CSR, Kurucz, Colbert, and Wheeler analyze the creation of firm value through CSR. Kurtz examines the foundations of SRI and how shareholders can affect the behavior of the firms they own, that is, the role of shareholder activism in promoting CSR by the firm.

In recent years, differences in the provision of CSR across countries have been of interest to both researchers and managers. Donaldson examines differences in corporate governance between American firms (where shareholder interests dominate) and European firms (where other groups' interests are also considered). Moon and Vogel examine differences in the business and government interface between the United States and Western European countries and how these differences affect the provision of CSR in these countries. Visser offers an analysis of CSR in developing countries and draws several conclusions regarding how CSR provision differs in developed and developing countries.

The incidence and nature of CSR in a global context is also a fruitful area of research and discourse because technology improvements have opened up markets throughout the world to Western‐style business with its attendant benefits and costs. Because many countries do not provide sufficient government and legal protection for consumers, employees, and the environment, businesses or firms that operate globally are expected to recognize and respond to greater responsibilities than they may have to in their (developed) home country. Scherer and Palazzo explain these expectations. Millington explains how the recent phenomenon of the global supply chain has created pressure on large multinational firms to set the standards for CSR behavior by their suppliers that often operate in developing countries—what he terms ethical supply chain management (ESCM).

Drivers of CSR

One of the issues central to CSR, but often left unexamined, is what ‘drives’ CSR? That is, where does the idea of responsibility originate? Several of the chapters in this volume address this issue in some detail.

One relatively well‐recognized driver of CSR is the consumer. Smith examines how consumers can drive CSR behavior through both positive ethical consumerism (support for products that are produced by responsible firms) and negative ethical consumerism (boycotting firms that act irresponsibly). Steger is more reserved in his support for consumers as drivers, pointing out that consumers are still generally reluctant to support CSR and may punish laggards, but not reward pioneers in CSR. Williams and Aguilera compares consumer attitudes towards CSR across cultures, postulating that there are significant differences.

Another well‐recognized driver of CSR is the manager. The manager as agent for the stockholders (principals) of the firm has control over the resources and can determine how those resources are allocated. Therefore, managers, and especially CEOs, can strongly influence CSR behavior (Waldman et al. , 2006) . This is at the heart of most of the controversy surrounding CSR. Proponents of CSR assert that managers should exercise moral leadership, as proposed in Swanson's chapter. Opponents believe that there is an agency problem when managers engage in CSR or more generally, that ‘investment’ in CSR constitutes an inefficient use of corporate resources. Salazar and Husted examine this tension. Williams and Aguilera discuss differences in CSR attitudes and behaviors across different cultures. Pruzan discusses a spiritual‐based perspective of CSR which implies that managers are—and should be—the drivers of CSR.

The lack of government regulation and legal protections in much of the world is another recognized driver of CSR. In developing countries and regions, firms must take over many of the social functions of government so that there is a stable economy, a viable workforce, and a globally sustainable environment in which to conduct commerce. This driver is discussed in several chapters, but most explicitly analyzed in the Visser chapter. Hanlon argues that unmet social needs create a means for firms to develop relationships with stakeholders that benefit the firm (building reliance on firms rather than governments).

In developed countries, government may be a driver of CSR. Moon and Vogel discuss ways in which governments can actively encourage firms to engage in CSR, for example, through the establishment of non‐binding codes and standards. Alternatively, firms might choose CSR as a way to escape formal regulation. Whether through the stick or the carrot, governments may be effective in encouraging CSR.

Social Auditing and Reporting

One area where proponents of CSR have prevailed is in auditing and reporting. The premise behind the support for reporting is that managers will be encouraged to perform more responsibly if they must report on results, and shareholder activists can use the information in reports to invest responsibly. Owen and O'Dwyer discuss the growth and development of corporate social and environmental reporting. Kuhn and Deetz outline the critical theorists' critique of social audits and reports. Buchholtz, Brown, and Shabana discuss the role of legislation in establishing standards for auditing and reporting and the need for global guidelines.

Information Asymmetry and the Strategic Use of CSR

These chapters underscore the importance of information relating to CSR practices. More generally, we believe that the role of information asymmetry in CSR is a fruitful area of research ( see Baron, 2001 , and Fedderson and Gilligan, 2001 , for theoretical analyses and Siegel and Vitaliano, 2007 , for empirical evidence). It is important to note that CSR practices and product features are not always totally transparent and observable to the consumer and other stakeholders. This makes it difficult for consumers and other stakeholders to evaluate the firm's social performance.

As noted in Fedderson and Gilligan (2001) , the degree of asymmetric information regarding internal operations can be mitigated by the company or by ‘activists’ and/or/‘non‐governmental organizations’ (NGOs). It is interesting to note that McDonalds, Motorola, and Nike now publish ‘annual CSR reports’. One can view this activity as a form of advertising, especially for more general types of CSR. However, stakeholders may perceive this information as biased, since it is presented by incumbent managers and not an independent source. Therefore, NGOs may emerge to fill this gap. Additional evidence is needed on how consumers and other stakeholders respond to these efforts.

More generally, the field would greatly benefit from more research on precisely how firms matrix decisions regarding CSR into their business and corporate‐level strategies. There is now mounting empirical evidence ( Russo and Fouts, 1997 ; Reinhardt, 1998 ; Siegel and Vitaliano, 2007 ) that it is consistent with strategic theories of CSR and rational, profit‐seeking management decision‐making. However, others may view this evidence quite differently. They may perceive this stylized fact as indicative of the notion that CSR is a ‘fraud’ or a ‘smokescreen’, used to disguise other irresponsible behavior. In this regard, it is interesting to note that firms such as Enron and Philip Morris were actively involved in social responsibility.

An interesting recent paper by Strike, Gao, and Bansal (2006) examines this tension between responsibility and irresponsibility. The authors assert that firms can simultaneously be socially responsible and socially irresponsible (e.g. Philip Morris). Based on a strategic/resource‐based‐view framework, they examine whether international diversification influences the propensity of firms to be socially responsible and socially irresponsible. More specifically, the authors demonstrate that firms diversifying internationally create value by acting responsibly and destroy value by acting irresponsibly.

The field of CSR remains wide open and we hope that these authors have expanded your horizons. Hope springs eternal.

Baron, D.   2001 . ‘ Private Politics, Corporate Social Responsibility and Integrated Strategy ’. Journal of Economics and Management Strategy , 10: 7–45. 10.1162/105864001300122548

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McWilliams, A. , and Siegel, D.   2001 . ‘ Corporate Social Responsibility: A Theory of the Firm Perspective ’. Academy of Management Review , 26(1): 117–27. 10.2307/259398

Reinhardt, F.   1998 . ‘ Environmental Product Differentiation ’. California Management Review , 40, summer: 43–73.

Russo, M. V. , and Fouts, P. A.   1997 . ‘ A Resource‐Based Perspective on Corporate Environmental Performance and Profitability ’. Academy of Management Journal , 40: 534–59. 10.2307/257052

Siegel, D. S. , and Vitaliano, D.   2007 . ‘ An Empirical Analysis of the Strategic Use of Corporate Social Responsibility ’. Journal of Economics and Management Strategy , 17(3): 773–92.

Strike, V. M. , Gao, J. , and Bansal, T.   2006 . ‘ Being Good while Being Bad: Social Responsibility and the International Diversification of U.S. Firms ’. Journal of International Business Studies , 37(6): 850–62. 10.1057/palgrave.jibs.8400226

Waldman, D. , Siegel, D. S. , and Javidan, M.   2006 . ‘ Components of CEO Transformational Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility. ’ Journal of Management Studies , 43(8): 1703–25. 10.1111/j.1467-6486.2006.00642.x

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Georgetown Law

The challenges of implementing corporate social responsibility in a democratic capitalist system.

April 26, 2024 by Kelechi Madu (LL.M'24)

Denny Center Student Fellow Kelechi Madu (LL.M'24) discusses the evolution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) over time and challenges with its implementation.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a strategy that companies adopt to ensure that their operations are ethical, impactful, and beneficial to society. Its underlying goal is for businesses to operate in an economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable manner. Examples include the Starbuck’s Initiative for Youths, which offered grants to help support and develop youth action, as well as the US Green Building Council’s LEED certification program, which was used to help create energy and water efficient designs. [1] In this article, we will be discussing the historical roots of the concept of social responsibility, then exploring the early stages of formal and academic writings regarding the social responsibility of corporations. This will include CSR’s evolution, issues and challenges, legal constraints, and considerations of CSR in the international context.

Background – Overview of CSR in a Democratic Capitalist State

The concept of CSR is based on the centuries old belief that corporate organizations have a responsibility to give back to society. [2] However, it was not until the 1930s and 40s, when the duties of the executives and the social performance of corporations began appearing in literature, that the modern understanding of CSR emerged. [3] The notion that businesses should respect human rights and consider the social and environmental effects of their actions has gained both broad acceptance and significance in democratic capitalist systems.

The social components of corporate behavior have a long history that can be traced back to ancient Roman laws. For example, businesses supported homes for the poor and old, hospitals, and orphanages. [4] The notion of corporations as social enterprises carried on through English law during the Middle Ages in academic, municipal, and religious institutions. Later, in the 16 th and 17 th centuries, the English Crown saw corporations as an instrument for social development. During the 18 th and 19 th centuries, the Christian religious philosophy and approach to the abiding social context were seen as a response to the moral failure of society. This failure was perceptible in terms of poverty of the overall population in the English empire and some parts of Europe. [5] The religious approach gave way to social reforms and Victorian philanthropy, which perceived a series of social problems revolving around poverty, education, child labor, and female labor.

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the creation of welfare programs took a paternalistic approach aimed at protecting, retaining, and sometimes improving quality of life for employees. Furthermore, there were also clear illustrations that reflected the social sensitivity of business leaders. For example, in 1875 Macy’s contributed funds to orphanages and asylum homes and, by 1887, labeled their charity donations as ‘miscellaneous expenses’ within their accounting books. In the 1900s, there was also a growing level of urbanization and industrialization marked by large-scale production. This brought about new concerns to the labor market, such as new challenges for farmers and small corporations to manage in the new interdependent economy. [6]

Accordingly, by the 1920s and early 1930s, business managers began assuming the responsibility of balancing the maximization of profits with balancing the demands of their clients, labor force, and community. This led to managers being viewed as trustees for a different set of relationships outside the company, which in turn translated into social and economic responsibilities being adopted by corporations.

Issues and Challenges in Aligning CSR with Democratic Capitalism

As key actors are becoming increasingly interested in business affairs, many companies are already taking steps to ensure that their partners conduct themselves in a socially responsible manner. This typically involves the introduction of codes of conduct for suppliers to ensure that other companies’ policies or practices do not tarnish their reputation. A CSR project may commence in response to a crisis or adverse publicity, or may result from public expectations and advocacy. For example, in India, over time the expectation of the public has grown enormously with demands focusing on alleviating poverty, tackling unemployment, fighting inequality, or forcing companies to take affirmative action. The motive for launching CSR initiatives can vary from philanthropy to notions of corporate citizenship. [7]

Furthermore, the Times of India conducted a survey of 250 companies about the different challenges and issues related to CSR initiatives in different parts of the country. [8] Some of these responses include the following:

• Lack of Community Participation in CSR Activities : Companies that practice CSR can benefit society, boost brand recognition, and improve investor relations. However, there is a lack of interest from the local community in participating and contributing to CSR activities of companies. This is largely due to the fact that there is little to no knowledge about CSR efforts within the local communities, as no serious efforts have been made to spread awareness about CSR and instill confidence in the local communities about such initiatives. The situation is further aggravated by a lack of communication between the company and the community at the grassroots level. [9]
• Development of Local Skills: NGOs can be helpful in carrying out CSR activities, but are often overlooked due to their inefficiency, and lack of resources and support.  Capacity building of local NGOs is necessary to ensure that they can effectively contribute to ongoing CSR activities and help scale up such initiatives .
• Visibility Factor : Communication that is succinct, appropriate, and directed towards the right people can lead to success and motivation to perform well over time. The media plays an important role in highlighting successful CSR initiatives, as it spreads positive stories and raises awareness among the local population about various CSR initiatives of companies. [10] However, the desire to gain visibility and engage in branding exercises often leads many NGOs to focus on event-based programs, which can cause them to miss out on meaningful grassroots involvement.
• Lack of Consensus on Implementing CSR Projects : There is a lack of agreement among local agencies regarding CSR projects, which has often resulted in corporate houses duplicating activities in areas where they are already involved. This can create a competitive spirit between local implementing agencies, rather than building collaborative approaches to address issues. Additionally, as a result of duplicated activities, companies may find it difficult to assess the impact of their initiatives from time to time.
• Issues of Transparency: The survey conducted by the Times of India [11] further reveals that companies have expressed concerns about the lack of transparency on the part of local implementing agencies. These agencies do not make adequate efforts to disclose information on their programs, audit issues, impact assessments, or utilization of funds. This lack of transparency negatively impacts the process of trust-building between companies and local communities, which is a key factor to the success of any CSR initiative at the local level.
• Narrow Perception towards CSR Initiatives : NGOs and government agencies usually possess a narrow outlook towards the CSR initiatives. Since CSR initiatives often prioritize short-term fixes over sustainable solutions, NGOs and government actors define CSR initiatives as more donor-driven than local in approach. Relying solely on donor funding, can lead to inconsistent support and limited long-term impact. As a result, these groups find it hard to decide whether they should participate in such activities at all in the medium to long-run.

Regulatory Framework – Legal Constraints on CSR Initiatives

CSR has become a well-known concept over the last ten and half years. [12] Employees, academic scholars, government representatives, NGOs, and international organizations have been contemplating what role they have to play in connection with CSR. Laws, rules, and regulations have been drafted that promote socially responsible behavior of companies. [13] Some international organizations have promoted CSR principles, some have adopted CSR mission statements and programs, and many are sharing their efforts through sustainability reports. Additionally, NGOs have contacted companies and pointed out how they can operate in a more responsible way and how the various laws, policies, and regulations can be improved.

The regulatory framework in the context of CSR has helped in developing a large variety of private self-regulatory instruments related to social or environmental aspects of economic activities. An example of this is the emergence of the various codes of conduct and private labels. [14] Some of these regulations have been adopted unilaterally by multinational companies, others have been developed together with NGOs or international institutions. These instruments have often acquired legal effect under private law because they have become part of the supply chain contract or labor agreements.

According to Carola Glinski’s book, Competing Transnational Regimes Under WTO Law , private regulatory instruments can also acquire legal effect in public international law when they would qualify as ‘international standards’ in the WTO Agreement On Technical Barriers To Trade (TBT Agreement). She furthers states that the concept of ‘international standards’ plays an important role in the TBT Agreement, as states are now required to base on their technical (e.g. environmental) regulations on international standards and to provide a justification for their technical regulations in accordance with these standards. [15]

Finally, according to Adefolake Adeyeye’s book, Corporate Social Responsibility of Multinational Companies in Developing Countries: Perspective on Anti-Corruption , the public sector took a stand that companies should adopt a CSR approach to curb the involvement of multinational companies in corrupt practices, particularly in developing countries. [16] The rationale behind this is that accountability is a major principle of effective CSR and without some form of accountability, corporations will lack the requisite motivation to act in a socially responsible way and the victims of this irresponsible behavior will be unable to receive compensation for the harm done to them. [17]

International Considerations

International CSR considerations involve several factors including respecting various cultural differences in adapting CSR initiatives to align with the diverse values and norms. Ethical standards also play a pivotal role, involving fair business practices and accountability on a global scale. Compliance with local laws is fundamental, as each country may have distinct regulations for CSR. A typical example is the United Nations Global Compact, which provides a framework for businesses to adhere to principles related to human rights, labor, the environment and anti-corruption. [18]

Environmental sustainability is another major focus of international CSR, with companies addressing issues like carbon footprint, waste management, and sustainable sourcing. Other international considerations include human rights concerns such as fair labor practices, diversity and inclusion, and avoiding exploitation in the supply chain. Community engagement is another vital aspect in international CSR, as it involves global corporations striving to contribute positively to the communities in which they operate through processes such as philanthropy, supporting local initiatives, and fostering social development. [19]

In addition to the other international CSR considerations, companies must engage with their stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, and communities, to understand their needs and concerns and to build trust and mutual respect. This means that companies must communicate with their stakeholders regularly, listen to their feedback, and take their opinions into account when making decisions that affect them.

Furthermore, corporate organizations must respect the human rights of their stakeholders, including their right to life, liberty, and security, freedom from discrimination, as well as freedom of association and collective bargaining. Companies should ensure that their operations do not violate human rights and that they respect the rights of their employees, customers, and other key stakeholders.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In a nutshell, for CSR initiatives to be successfully implemented – from the front lines to the international level, and in order to bring CSR further into the mainstream, several actions should be considered including:

• Improving Public Awareness : In order to make CSR initiatives more effective, there is a need for awareness about CSR amongst the general public. This awareness could be driven by the various stakeholders, including the media, to highlight the good work done by corporate houses in this area to bring about effective changes in the approach and attitude of the public towards CSR initiatives undertaken by corporate houses.
• Creating Shared Values : It is important to create shared values, as this is a necessary step in the evolution of business. The shared value creation process focuses on primarily identifying and expanding the connections between societal and economic progress. [20] Through this process, the policies and operating practices of a company can be shaped to help advance the economic and social conditions in the communities they operate.
• Agreeing on Effective Stakeholder Initiatives : It is necessary to involve stakeholders in the CSR process, as understanding their concerns and exceptions to the performance of the various initiatives that resonate with both internal and external stakeholders will go a long way towards implementing adequate and proper CSR policies.
• Customizing Global Initiatives : When operating internationally, customize CSR initiatives to respect the different local cultures and address specific issues in each region. A one-size-fits all approach may not be the most successful because of the diverse global landscape.
• Communicating Progress Transparently : This involves openly sharing CSR goals and progress as well as challenges. Effective communication through the different channels such as the annual reports, social media, and press releases, helps build trust and credibility. Furthermore, it is also pertinent to acknowledge challenges and setbacks transparently, as this helps in demonstrating authenticity and a commitment to continuous improvement.

In conclusion, for CSR initiatives to have a significant effect, it’s essential for organizations to not only engage in positive corporate actions but also actively advocate for them. This involves aligning business strategies with societal advancement goals and tailoring global efforts to suit the specific needs and nuances of local communities. Moreover, maintaining transparency in communication, such as through detailed annual reports and active engagement on social media platforms, plays a crucial role in fostering trust and credibility among stakeholders.

[1] Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by the CFI Team, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – Types and Business Benefits (corporatefinanceinstitute.com) (Retrieved February 07, 2024)

[2] Carroll, A. B. (2008). A history of corporate social responsibility: concepts and practices. In A. M. Andrew Crane, D. Matten, J. Moon, & D. Siegel (Eds.), The Oxford handbook of corporate social responsibility (pp. 19–46). New York: Oxford University Press.

[3] Carroll, A. B. (1999). Corporate social responsibility. Business & Society, 38(3), 268–295.

[4] Chaffee, E. C. (2017). The origins of corporate social responsibility. University of Cincinnati Law Review, 85, 347–373.

[6] Heald, M. (1970). The social responsibilities of business: company and community 1900–1960. United States of America: Pr. of Case Western Reserve Univ.

[7] Nexa Saxena C.A (2018), Corporate Social Responsibility: Issues & Challenges, Volume III, Issue IA, January 2016, p. 44.

[9] The Forbes article titled “Why Community Engagement Is A Crucial Piece Of A Thriving Company Culture” emphasizes the importance of authentic community engagement in organizational culture

[10] Nexa Saxena C.A (2018), Corporate Social Responsibility: Issues & Challenges, Volume III, Issue IA, January 2016, p. 44.

[12] Tineke Lambooy, Corporate Social Responsibility. Legal and semi-legal frameworks supporting CSR (Kluwer 2010), <https://openaccess.leidenuniv.nl/handle/1887/16169>.

[13] Indonesian Corporate Law and Investment Law oblige CSR. See Tineke Lambooy and others, CSR in Indonesia: legislative developments and case studies (Konstitusi Press 2013).

[14] Tineke Lambooy, Legal Aspects of Corporate Social Responsibility, 30 UTRECHT J. INT’l & EUR. L. 1 (2014).

[15] Carola Glinski, Competing Transnational Regimes Under WTO Law, Utrecht Journal of International and European Law, Vol. 30, No. 78, pp. 44-67 (2014)

[16] Adefolake O. Adeyeye, Corporate Social Responsibility of Multinational Corporations in Developing Countries: Perspectives on Anti-Corruption (Cambridge University Press 2012)

[17] David Weissbrodt, Corporate Social Responsibility: A Legal Analysis, 32 HUM. RTS. Q. 207 (2010).

[18] Andrew Crane & Dirk Matten, Corporate Social Responsibility: A business Ethics Approach (2016).

[19] Charles W.L. Hill & G. Tomas M. Hult, International Business: Competing in the global Marketplace (2020)

[20] Porter, M. E., & Kramer, M. R. (2011). Creating shared value. Harvard Business Review (January-February).

Essay on Corporate Social Responsibility

This report provides information on whether the benefits of CSR outweigh the drawbacks. The report shows that the benefits of CSR are more than the drawbacks and managers should consider implementing the strategy. The research utilizes the use of secondary resources to conclude. Most of the authors used in this report show that CSR has more advantages such as consumer satisfaction, financial performance, productivity, and promotes relationships among the companies, the stakeholders, and society. This research informs the managers on the benefits of executing CSR in their companies. More so, it provides information on few drawbacks that the managers should be prepared to experience. The study adds new information concerning the comparison of advantages and disadvantages of CSR which makes it easier to determine if the strategy should be implemented in companies.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Introduction

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a self-controlling model of business that helps business organizations to be socially accountable to the public, stakeholders, and self. Through CSR, companies have conscious of how that affects society environmentally, socially, and economically as they do their businesses (Basuony et al., 2014). Engaging in CSR means that companies are operating in ways that improve society and its environment. As much as CSR influences companies to translate the principles into practical activities, some of the researchers show that CSR may harm companies, stakeholders, and consumers.

Research Questions

Do the positive impacts outweigh the negative effects of CSR among the companies?

Despite some of the researchers revealing the negative impacts of CSR, there are many positive influences that companies, stakeholders, and consumers experience. Companies should ensure that they are responsible for themselves, society, stakeholders, and consumers. This promotes the positive impact of business in society without other people suffering the implications of unethical business activities. However, it is linked to few drawbacks such as costs, conflicts in the profit motive, and “green washing” of customers.

Methodology

This report will utilize secondary sources for review to come up with conclusions. Articles that are less than 10 years old will be used to develop conclusions on whether CSR is effective among companies and if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Literature Review

Based on a substantiation from Mena country, Basuony et al. (2014) state that CSR promotes the performance of business organizations. The stakeholder theory suggests that organizations have to manage relationships with other groups and stakeholders which influences the effectiveness of business decisions. Despite making entrepreneurship progress, businesses that pay attention to the needs of society are successful. For example, branding is effective when a business organization protects the environment and takes part in social activities such as the construction of schools. Most of the researches in this article show that CSR influences business performance through market orientation and consumer satisfaction and financial performance. In research done by Newman et al. (2018), shows that CSR has an independent positive influence on the level of firms efficacy- increased productivity influenced by high effective business engagement. Increased company involvement in community initiatives is a great influence for success in business due to customers’ and stakeholders’ trust.

The concept of the future of CSR presented by Archie Caroll shows that as companies continue to apply CSR, benefits such as stakeholders engagement, increased productivity due to employees being the driving force of business and the enhancement of power among ethically sensitive customers and the client will be experienced (Agudelo et al., 2019). The concept influences effective governance criteria, environmental responsibility, corporate citizenship, the establishment of shared business values, and social performance. However, CSR is linked to various negative impacts. Mahmood et al. (2020) suggest that CSR influences negativity through abusive supervision while valuing employees’ conducts. As much as CSR influences minimization of negative employees’ behavior, it also influences negative conduct when there is abusive supervision. More so, the implementation of CSR needs money. Especially for small businesses, CSR is not affordable to be allocated in the budget. The conflict of the profit motive is also established in CSR as the focus on societal benefits may influence losses to companies. Greenwashing of consumers is linked to CSR. For example, labeling products to be organic to attract consumers.

Implications

This exploration has implications for both bodies of knowledge and management. The research used in this report shows that as much as CSR may have various drawbacks, the benefits outweighs the disadvantages. It contributes to the existing body of knowledge by showing that CSR has more benefits and companies should consider its application in business. The limitations of the current study are the use of secondary sources and few articles to provide more evidence. More so, the articles used in this report do not include cultural factors such as religion which are significant in understanding CSR and the involved activities in the society. The discussion concerning the link between CSR and corporate governance is not provided. Therefore, further research should be done to evaluate this link and its impact on the performance of the company and the experiences of the stakeholders and customers. More so, the research provides a key takeaway for managers which is mainly the benefits of executing CSR in companies to influence performance. The managers should know that despite the presence of drawbacks linked to CSR, there are many advantages such as consumer satisfaction, effective branding, establishing trust, and financial performance.

Based on the previous research used in this report, it is evident that CSR has many advantages. These pros include consumer satisfaction, productivity, good relationships with society and stakeholders, financial performance, and effective branding. These advantages overpower the drawbacks which include costs, conflicts in the profit motive, and “green washing” of customers. However, the limitations of the research include the inclusion of fewer articles and a lack of cultural factors in the research. Therefore, this study concludes that the benefits of CSR outweigh the disadvantages. The implication of the literature is informing managers to execute CSR which promotes productivity and financial performance.

Agudelo, M. A. L., Jóhannsdóttir, L., & Davídsdóttir, B. (2019). A literature review of the history and evolution of corporate social responsibility.  International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility ,  4 (1), 1-23.

Basuony, M. A., Elseidi, R. I., & Mohamed, E. K. (2014). The impact of corporate social responsibility on firm performance: Evidence from a MENA country.  Corporate Ownership & Control ,  12 (1-9), 761-774.

Mahmood, F., Qadeer, F., Abbas, Z., Hussain, I., Saleem, M., Hussain, A., & Aman, J. (2020). Corporate social responsibility and employees’ negative behaviors under abusive supervision: A multilevel insight.  Sustainability ,  12 (7), 2647.

Newman, C., Rand, J., Tarp, F., & Trifkovic, N. (2020). Corporate social responsibility in a competitive business environment.  The Journal of Development Studies ,  56 (8), 1455-1472.

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What Is CSR?

• Understanding CSR

Types of CSR

Company examples, the bottom line.

• Sustainable Investing
• Socially Responsible Investing

What Is CSR? Corporate Social Responsibility Explained

Katrina Ávila Munichiello is an experienced editor, writer, fact-checker, and proofreader with more than fourteen years of experience working with print and online publications.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a self-regulating business model that helps a company be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public. 

By practicing corporate social responsibility, also called corporate citizenship , companies are aware of how they impact aspects of society, including economic, social, and environmental. Engaging in CSR means a company operates in ways that enhance society and the environment instead of contributing negatively to them.

Key Takeaways

• Corporate social responsibility is a business model by which companies make a concerted effort to operate in ways that enhance rather than degrade society and the environment.
• CSR can help improve society and promote a positive brand image for companies.
• CSR includes four categories: environmental impacts, ethical responsibility, philanthropic endeavors, and financial responsibilities.

Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Through CSR programs, philanthropy, and volunteer efforts, businesses can benefit society while boosting their brands. A socially responsible company is accountable to itself and its shareholders. CSR is commonly a strategy employed by large corporations. The more visible and successful a corporation is, the more responsibility it has to set standards of ethical behavior for its peers, competition, and industry .

Small and midsize businesses also create social responsibility programs, although their initiatives are rarely as well-publicized as those of larger corporations.

• Environmental responsibility: Corporate social responsibility is rooted in preserving the environment. A company can pursue environmental stewardship by reducing pollution and emissions in manufacturing, recycling materials, replenishing natural resources like trees, or creating product lines consistent with CSR.
• Ethical responsibility: Corporate social responsibility includes acting fairly and ethically. Instances of ethical responsibility include fair treatment of all customers regardless of age, race, culture, or sexual orientation, favorable pay and benefits for employees, vendor use across demographics, full disclosures, and transparency for investors.
• Philanthropic responsibility: CSR requires a company to contribute to society, whether a company donates profit to charities, enters into transactions only with suppliers or vendors that align with the company philanthropically, supports employee philanthropic endeavors, or sponsors fundraising events.
• Financial responsibility: A company might make plans to be more environmentally, ethically, and philanthropically focused, however, it must back these plans through financial investments in programs, donations, or product research including research and development for products that encourage sustainability, creating a diverse workforce, or implementing DEI, social awareness, or environmental initiatives.

Volunteering

Some corporate social responsibility models replace financial responsibility with a sense of volunteerism. Otherwise, most models still include environmental, ethical, and philanthropic as types of CSR.

Benefits of CSR

According to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology, consumers are more likely to act favorably toward a company that has acted to benefit its customers. As a company engages in CSR, it is more likely to receive favorable brand recognition . Additionally, workers are more likely to stay with a company they believe in. This reduces employee turnover, disgruntled workers, and the total cost of a new employee .

For companies looking to outperform the market, enacting CSR strategies may improve how investors view the company's value. The Boston Consulting Group found that companies considered leaders in environmental, social, or governance matters had an 11% valuation premium over their competitors.

CSR practices help companies mitigate risk by avoiding troubling situations. This includes preventing adverse activities such as discrimination against employee groups, disregard for natural resources, unethical use of company funds, and activity that leads to lawsuits, and litigation .

CSR programs can raise morale in the workplace.  

In its 2022 Environmental and Social Impact Report, Starbucks ( SBUX ) highlights taking care of its workforce and the planet among its CSR priorities through stock grants and additional medical, family, and educational benefits. The company's goals include achieving 50% reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and waste by 2030.

Home Depot ( HD ) has invested more than 1 million hours per year in training to help front-line employees advance in their careers, aims to produce or procure 100% renewable energy to operate its facilities by 2030, and has plans to spend $5 billion per year with diverse suppliers by 2025.

General Motors won the Sustainability Leadership Award from the Business Intelligence Group in 2022. The automaker provided $60 million in grants to more than 400 U.S. nonprofits focusing on social issues, and it has agreements in place to use 100% renewable electricity at its U.S. sites by 2025.

Why Should a Company Implement CSR Strategies?

Many companies view CSR as an integral part of their brand image, believing customers will be more likely to do business with brands they perceive to be more ethical. In this sense, CSR activities can be an important component of corporate public relations. At the same time, some company founders are also motivated to engage in CSR due to their convictions.

What Is ISO 26000?

In 2010, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) released ISO 26000, a set of voluntary standards to help companies implement corporate social responsibility. Unlike other ISO standards, ISO 26000 provides guidance rather than requirements because the nature of CSR is more qualitative than quantitative, and its standards cannot be certified. ISO 26000 clarifies social responsibility and helps organizations translate CSR principles into practical actions.

What Are the Benefits of CSR?

CRS initiatives strive to have a positive impact on the world through direct benefits to society, nature and the community in which a business operations. In addition, a company may experience internal benefits through the initiatives. Knowing their company is promoting good causes, employee satisfaction may increase and retention of staff may be strengthened. In addition, members of society may be more likely to choose to transact with companies that are attempting to make a more conscious positive impact beyond the scope of its business.

What Companies Have the Best CSR?

Since 1999, Corporate Responsibility Magazine has ranked the top 100 Best Corporate Citizens each year among the 1,000 largest U.S. public companies. Rankings are based on employee relations, environmental impact, human rights, governance, and financial decisions. In 2023, the top-ranked companies include Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Company, Accenture, and Hasbro.

Companies striving to measure success beyond bottom-line financial results may adopt CSR strategies that target environmental, ethical, philanthropic, and fiscal responsibility that extend beyond the products they sell.

Society for Consumer Psychology. " Good Guys Can Finish First: How Brand Reputation Affects Extension Evaluations ."

Boston Consulting Group. " Your Supply Chain Needs a Sustainability Strategy ."

Frontiers in Psychology. " Corporate Social Responsibility and Employee Engagement: Enabling Employees to Employ More of Their Whole Selves at Work ."

Starbucks. " 2022 Starbucks Global Environmental and Social Impact Report ," Pages 6 and 32.

Home Depot. " ESG Report (2022) ," Pages 9-10.

General Motors. " 2022 Sustainability Report ," Pages 6-7.

International Organization for Standardization. " ISO 26000, Social Responsibility ."

3BL Media. " 100 Best Corporate Citizens of 2023 ."

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Analysis of the Tucson Jewish Community Center

This essay about the Tucson Jewish Community Center provides an overview of its role as a cultural and social hub in southern Arizona. It highlights the center’s commitment to lifelong learning, community building, and social justice initiatives. Through diverse programming and a dedication to Jewish values, the TJCC enriches the lives of individuals and fosters a sense of belonging within the community.

How it works

The Tucson Jewish Community Center (TJCC) is a vibrant hub of culture, education, and social connection nestled in the heart of southern Arizona. Founded in 1945, the center has served as a cornerstone of the local Jewish community, providing a wide range of programs and services for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

One of the key features of the TJCC is its commitment to lifelong learning and enrichment. From early childhood education programs to adult education classes, the center offers opportunities for intellectual growth and personal development at every stage of life.

Whether it’s learning a new language, exploring Jewish history and culture, or honing artistic talents, there’s something for everyone at the TJCC.

In addition to its educational offerings, the TJCC serves as a gathering place for community members to come together and celebrate their shared heritage. From holiday celebrations and cultural events to social gatherings and fitness classes, the center provides a space for individuals to connect with one another and build meaningful relationships. This sense of community and belonging is at the heart of the TJCC’s mission, fostering a sense of unity and support among its members.

Furthermore, the TJCC is dedicated to promoting social justice and tikkun olam, the Jewish value of repairing the world. Through initiatives such as community service projects, advocacy efforts, and partnerships with local organizations, the center strives to make a positive impact both within the Jewish community and beyond. By engaging in acts of kindness and working towards a more just and equitable society, the TJCC embodies the values of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility.

In conclusion, the Tucson Jewish Community Center plays a vital role in the fabric of southern Arizona, serving as a beacon of Jewish identity, culture, and values. Through its diverse programming, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to social justice, the center enriches the lives of individuals and families, strengthens the bonds of community, and leaves a lasting impact on the world around it.

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Opinions on Corporate Social Responsibility Essay

Introduction, reference list.

Corporate social responsibility is an essential aspect in the business world. It is an obligation for a business organization to pursue long term goals that are good for the society. It can also be termed as the continuing commitment by business firms to behave in an ethical manner and contribute to economic development while at the same time enhancing the quality of life of the employees and their families.

The business firm should also enhance the lives of the local community and the entire society around which it operates (Kotler, 2005). This piece of work looks at an individual, Karl Mark, evaluating him with respect to corporate social responsibility and its effects on his career.

Abiding by corporate social responsibility practices is not only beneficial to a business organization but also to individuals who participate in it. An individual’s perception and view about the idea of corporate social responsibility influences ones life greatly in terms of career progression and the behavior of the general public towards the individual.

This therefore dictates that it is advisable to support the idea of corporate social responsibility for the sake of one’s prosperity as well as that of the society at large despite the cost that could be involved.

Karl Marx was an active economic activist and socialist who was involved with many activities during his lifetime. It is evident that Karl Marx would totally support the idea of corporate social responsibility.

This is because of his nature and how he perceived life in general. He cared more about the communities and would therefore support any effort aimed at supporting the society in any way. He was against capitalism and supported collective gain among the society members (Marx, not dated).

In his career, Karl Mark was able to succeed due to the support he gave to the society in regard to advocating for developmental projects aimed at helping members of the society in an effort to uplift their living standards. Karl Mark’s economic and socialist work gained considerable support from people due to the fact that the benefits associated with the activities were clear (Marx, Easton and Guddat, 1997).

Business organizations should operate bearing in mind that the society is a crucial element that contributes towards their success. Without the support of the people who surround a business organization, it is difficult for it to succeed in its undertakings. This is because it requires a symbiotic relationship to be established between a business enterprise and the society around it.

This is so as both need each other for success. A business organization may need the society as buyers as well suppliers. They could also be a source of workforce in various positions for example marketers bearing in mind that they are in a better position to reach as many clients as possible.

The business should therefore go an extra mile in providing services to the society as a way of fulfilling corporate social responsibility. This could be through undertaking of some developmental projects that aim at enhancing the lives of the people.

Throughout his entire life, Karl Marx attempted to gain a deeper understanding of the society and its nature in an effort to ensure that their rights are fulfilled. He for example supported aspects like education and enlightenment of the people so that they would be in a position to fight for their rights and social justice.

Provision of educative programs by business enterprises to the community is a form of corporate social responsibility and plays a great role in ensuring that members of the society are well equipped with some knowledge and skills which in turn allows them to live a better and sustainable life for instance through securing employment opportunities (Eastman, 1959).

There are various benefits associated with corporate social responsibility. For example, it avoids excessive regulation, it is ethical and improves an individual’s and firm’s public image, enhances the social environment and more so, some socially responsible actions are profitable. It is also a good way of correcting social problems that might have been caused by various activities.

In cases of a business, it provides a competitive advantage, attracts and retains employees through motivation and attracts investors. It therefore follows that business enterprises should always foster corporate social responsibility.

Although Karl Mark received a lot of objections from the authorities such as the governments, he tried his best to enhance the lives of the society and for this reason his name and work will live to be remembered over the years. This is more so because of his contribution towards the understanding of society (Foot, 2004).

From the above discussion, it is evident that corporate social responsibility is critical to economic development due to the fact that it empowers societies.

Abiding by corporate social responsibility practices is not only beneficial to a business organization but also to individuals who participate in it. An individual’s perception and view about the idea of corporate social responsibility influences his or her career and how the general public reacts towards him or her.

Eastman, M. (1959). Capital, the Communist Manifesto and Other Writings . New York: Modern Library.

Foot, P. (2004). Karl Marx: the Best Hated Man, Socialist review . Web.

Kotler, P. (2005). Corporate Social Responsibility: Doing the Most Good for Your Company and Your Cause . New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons.

Marx, K. (n d). Economic and Philosophical Manuscripts of 1844 . Web.

Marx K, Easton, D.L and Guddat H.K. (1997). Writings of the Young Marx on Philosophy and Society . New York: Hackett Publishing.

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1. IvyPanda . "Opinions on Corporate Social Responsibility." February 4, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/opinions-on-corporate-social-responsibility-essay/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Opinions on Corporate Social Responsibility." February 4, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/opinions-on-corporate-social-responsibility-essay/.

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