A neo-Kantian foundation of corporate social responsibility

Dubbink, Wim; Van Liedekerke, L.

doi:10.1007/S10677-008-9138-2

Title

A neo-Kantian foundation of corporate social responsibility

Author

Dubbink, Wim

Van Liedekerke, L.

Abstract

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is conceptualized in many ways. We argue that one cannot be indifferent about the issue of its conceptualization. In terms of methodology, our position is that any conceptual discussion must embed CSR in political theory. With regard to substance, we link up with the discussion on whether CSR must be defined on the basis of a tripartite or a quadripartite division of business responsibilities. We share A.B. Carrolls intuition that a quadripartite division is called for as a basis to define CSR. However, defending the quadripartite division of business responsibilities requires that the distinctions between economic, legal, ethical and discretionary business responsibilities be made intelligible. Carrolls account is defective in this respect. We argue that contemporary Neo-Kantian political ethics is able to make sense of these distinctions, because of its specific interpretation of liberalism. Interestingly, from a conventional liberal perspective this interpretation of liberalism is atypical, as it extends public morality beyond the domain of the law.

Language

English

Source (journal)

Ethical theory and moral practice. - Dordrecht, 1998, currens

Publication

Dordrecht : 2009

ISSN

1386-2820 [print]

1572-8447 [online]

DOI

10.1007/S10677-008-9138-2

Volume/pages