Managerial beliefs concerning social responsibility of the firm : a trial to identify and understand entrepreneurs' and managers' social responsibility beliefs as discoursive phenomenon

Abstract

This study examines the concept of the social responsibility of the firm expressed especially in managerial talk. This talk is seen as reflecting social responsibility beliefs, attitudes and values of managers. In Part I the research task is defined, the concept of responsibility is examined and clarified and ideal types of social-responsibility are formed. In Part II empirical research settings are put forth. The principles of data collection and the case study method are presented. Part III contains the analysis of the cases. Several aspects and results are developed. First, some reservations about the interpretations are expressed. Second, a comparison is made between the old ideal types and new real types of social responsibility. Similarities and differences are subjected to examination. Third, the internal logic of business managers' speeches is formulated and five models of reasoning are developed. The legitimacy aspect is expounded. Fourth, some issues of business ethics are located in respect to deontological and teleological ethical theories and a quadrant is formed. Finally, three "final" types of business social responsibility are formed and comparisons are made with the framework presented at the beginning of the study.