Corporate Social Responsibility

Abstract

AbstractThis entry provides an overview of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and strategic CSR communication from a historical and theoretical perspective. It addresses different approaches to CSR, distinguishing paradigmatic and theoretical conceptualizations and framings within the fields of CSR and CSR communication. The lack of consensus about what CSR is and what it contributes to organizational success and the quality of society has given rise to dilemmas and conflicts between stakeholder interests that may cause particular challenges for strategic CSR communication. The entry uncovers some of these dilemmas and conflicts, considering them to be a means of moving CSR forward by supporting the emerging interest in it as a combination of socially responsible processes and values that can provide an alternative to the previous focus on strong corporate outcomes and reputation.