In the age of global capitalism, shareholders, and profits are not the only concerns of modern business corporations. Debates surrounding economic and environmental sustainability, and increasing intense media scrutiny, mean that businesses have to show ethical responsibility to stakeholders beyond the boardroom. A commitment to corporate social responsibility may help the wider community. It could also protect an organization’s brand and reputation.
Including key articles and original perspectives from academics, NGOs and companies themselves, The Corporate Social Responsibility Reader is a welcome and insightful introduction to the important issues and themes of this growing field of study. This book addresses:
- the changing relationships between business, state and civil society
- the challenges to business practice
- what businesses should be responsible for, and why
- issues of engagement, transparency and honesty
- the boundaries of CSR – can businesses ever be responsible?
While case studies examine major international corporations like Coca Cola and Starbucks, broader articles discuss thematic trends and issues within the field. This comprehensive but eclectic collection provides a wonderful overview of CSR and its place within the contemporary social and economic landscape. It is essential reading for anyone studying business and management, and its ethical dimensions.
Section 1: Contemporary Pressures and the Changing Relationships Between Business, the State and Civil Section 2: Challenges to Contemporary Business Practice Section 3: What Should Businesses be Responsible for and Why Should they Care? Section 4: Shaping the New Business Agenda: Guidelines and Actions Section 5: The Opening Up of the Business Community: Engagement, Transparency and Honesty Section 6: Can Companies Ever be Socially Responsible?: Assessing the Boundaries of CSR and Looking to the Future for Responsible Business
Biography
Jon Burchell
