Examine the relevance of Corporate Social Responsibility in a world marked by increasing environmental crises.
Section: A.
Sociology Paper 2023 Analysis.
Relevant for Paper 1: Unit 10 social change in Modern society
Question 5 (A): Examine the relevance of corporate social responsibility in a world marked by increasing environmental crises.
(10 Marks)
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Introduction: Explain the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in brief Main Body: Explain the relevance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) using various perspectives like functionalist, feminists, reflexivity and risk society Conclusion: Need for genuine steps for goal attainment by mobilising the motivation of corporates |
Introduction:
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to the ethical conduct of a corporation towards society. It implies that corporations should not only be concerned about profit-making but also the welfare of society and the environment. With the increasing environmental crises worldwide, the relevance of CSR is more significant than ever. Ecological modernization theory highlights that markets and economic agents should modify their action to introduce incentives for environmentally benign outcomes
Main body:
- Many corporations have significant environmental footprints due to their operations, such as manufacturing, mining, and energy production. From functionalist viewpoint Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plays a role in promoting social cohesion by demonstrating that corporations are willing to address the collective concern of environmental degradation. This fosters a sense of solidarity among stakeholders, reinforcing the moral fabric of society and it helps in preventing the conflict in society and maintaining social order.
- An example of this is the Indian multinational conglomerate Tata Group, which has implemented numerous CSR initiatives focused on environmental sustainability. These include water conservation projects, afforestation drives, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
- Anthony Giddens’ theory of “reflexive modernity” suggests that individuals and institutions must adapt and change in response to environmental challenges. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can be viewed as an expression of reflexive modernity within corporations, where they recognize the need to adapt their practices to address environmental concerns, while also ensuring their own sustainability.
- Schimberg says that the industrial capitalism sets societies on a treadmill of production leading to environmental damage, using up natural resources at a rapid rate and generating high level of pollution and waste. Hence it puts a responsibility on the part of corporates to take action to solve the crises .
- Ulrich Beck’s theory of the “Risk Society” argues that modern industrial societies are characterized by unprecedented risks, including environmental risks. In this context, (Corporate Social Responsibility) CSR can be seen as a response to the risks associated with environmental crises. Corporations engage in CSR to manage and mitigate risks, as well as to gain social acceptance and reduce the potential for societal unrest resulting from environmental harm.
- Marxist perspectives highlight the role of corporations in perpetuating social inequalities and exploiting natural resources. In the context of environmental crises, CSR can be seen as an attempt by corporations to mitigate the negative consequences of their actions on marginalized communities and the environment. It can be viewed as a response to potential social unrest and a way to legitimize corporate power.
Some criticism of CSR highlighting the gaps
- However Subaltern sociologists argue that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund is not used for tribal rehabilitation, small and marginal farmers or to mitigate draughts or crop damage due to extreme weather events and CSR funds are mostly used in urban or semi urban areas.
- Feminist sociologists argue that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds rarely consider female perspectives on environmental mitigation Sylvia Walby argues that environmental crisis has different impact on women as women are among the most affected social group by environment catastrophe.
Conclusion:
While CSR presents an avenue for corporations to align with societal values, manage risks, and foster social cohesion, its effectiveness hinges on the genuine commitment of businesses to sustainable and responsible practices, emphasizing the pressing need for corporate motivation towards meaningful goal attainment along with fostering the concerns of various sections of society.
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KEYWORD:
Corporate social responsibility, Environmental crises, Relevance of CSR, Functionalism, Feminism, Reflexivity, Risk society, Genuine commitment, Sustainable practices, Goal attainment