An examination of different perspectives on philanthropic corporate social responsibility

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify different perspectives on philanthropic corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities by using the mixed-method approach and Q methodology. In addition, this study examines why people consider the revealed perspectives to be important factors.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, the authors used a structured sampling of 30 CSR-related statements (a Q sample) and had participants rank-order the statements from “most important” (+4) to “most unimportant” (−4).FindingsThe results, from the factor analysis and correlation using the Q method software program PQMETHOD, revealed two distinctive perspectives. The first group emphasized the importance of supporting environmental-related activities. The second group ranked supporting arts-related activities as the most important factor of philanthropic CSR activities.Research limitations/implicationsThe goal of Q methodology is not the generalizability of the results but to identify the different views that exist regarding a topic, even minority ones. The findings are discussed in terms of practical implications for how this framework can be used to understand the subjective papers of different types of stakeholders.Originality/valueThis study identifies the different perspectives that exist regarding philanthropic CSR activities by using Q methodology, which is a good alternative to other research methods that provides a unique way of uncovering subjectivity from the participants’ point of view.