Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a concept that has evolved significantly throughout history. As society and environmental awareness have progressed, CSR has become a fundamental principle for many businesses. Its history is an interesting journey through time.
The origin of CSR dates back to the 19th century in Europe when the first worker cooperatives were established. These cooperatives, such as the Rochdale Pioneers in England in 1844, aimed to improve the working and social conditions of employees. Although these initial efforts were limited in scope, they laid the groundwork for concern for the well-being of workers.
The 1950s marked a significant milestone in the evolution of CSR with the publication of Howard R. Bowen’s book, “Social Responsibilities of the Businessman.” Bowen defined CSR as the obligation of businesses to pursue policies, make decisions, and follow lines of action compatible with the objectives and values of society. His work helped popularize the concept.
In the following decades, CSR experienced steady growth, driven in part by growing public awareness of environmental and social issues. Companies began to recognize that their actions had an impact on society and the environment, and that they needed to take responsibilities beyond their financial results.
The globalization and technological revolution of the late 20th century accelerated the spread of CSR. Companies realized that poor management of social or environmental issues could damage their reputation and their ability to operate in an increasingly interconnected global market.
In the 21st century, CSR evolved into corporate sustainability, a broader approach addressing not only social and environmental impact but also corporate governance and ethics. The adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in 2015 and the growth of sustainability reports are examples of how CSR has evolved towards a more comprehensive approach to corporate responsibility.
Today, CSR is a fundamental part of many companies, and its impact transcends geographical and sectoral boundaries. Companies recognize that being socially and environmentally responsible is not only a moral obligation but also a smart strategy for long-term success. The history of CSR is a testament to the power of evolution and adaptation in the business world.
