Final answer:
There are fundamental disagreements among experts about the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR), with debates ranging from its importance to the balance of stakeholder interests. The topic encompasses ethical practices, emerging technologies, and the evolving legal rights and moral responsibilities of corporations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Leading economists and management theorists have fundamental disagreements about the justification for corporate social responsibility (CSR). While some argue for shareholder primacy based on duty and the goal of maximizing shareholder wealth, others advocate for stakeholder theory, where the interests of all stakeholders are balanced. The safety and liability of workers have been a concern since the Industrial Revolution, leading to government regulations like those established by OSHA.
With regards to the social responsibilities of business, ethical practices and emerging technologies present continuous challenges. Attitudes toward CSR range from viewing it as a public relations exercise to advocating for it as an essential component of modern business. The legal rights and moral responsibilities of corporations are also a subject of debate, particularly in light of recent Supreme Court rulings that have broadened corporate rights.