Author Abstract
This working paper examines the evolution of concepts of the responsibility of business in a historical and global perspective. It shows that from the nineteenth century American, European, Japanese, Indian, and other business leaders discussed the responsibilities of business beyond making profits, although until recently such views have not been mainstream. This paper argues that four factors drove such beliefs: spirituality, self-interest, fear of government intervention, and the belief that governments were incapable of addressing major social issues. There were always a wide variation concerning the nature of this responsibility, and although the language of responsibility has diffused globally, there remain wide variations in the relationship between rhetoric and practice.
Paper Information
- Full Working Paper Text
- Working Paper Publication Date: July 2013
- HBS Working Paper Number: 14-004
- Faculty Unit(s): General Management