Question

In Carroll's four-part definition of corporate social responsibility, he includes philanthropic responsibilities, yet he describes these as voluntary or discretionary. Explain this seeming contrast between responsibility and voluntary activity.

Answer 1

Carroll's four-part definition of corporate social responsibility includes voluntary or discretionary philanthropic responsibilities. This means that while corporations have a moral obligation to contribute to society, the extent of their philanthropic actions is not legally mandated.

Step-by-step explanation:

Carroll's four-part definition of corporate social responsibility includes philanthropic responsibilities, which he describes as voluntary or discretionary. This seeming contrast between responsibility and voluntary activity can be explained by understanding that while corporations have a moral obligation to contribute to society, the exact extent of their philanthropic actions is not legally mandated. They have the freedom to choose which social causes they support and to what extent.

For example, a corporation may decide to donate a portion of its profits to a local charity, but this is not a legal requirement. By being voluntary, corporations have the flexibility to adapt their philanthropic efforts based on their resources, priorities, and strategic goals.