A new role for businesses? Analyzing corporate social responsibility

Abstract

This study analyzes the concept of corporate social responsibility related to Transnational Corporations (TNCs); why businesses are undertaking new responsibilities related to the social realm. As the power and visibility of TNCs have increased and their influence on society has grown, public expectations concerning their operations also rose. The constructivist theory of International Relations is used in order to approach the issues in a framework, and to be able to understand the future roles of businesses. The development of the concept as well as related legal and philosophical discussions are also included. Case studies have been used which have been analyzed using the theoretical framework explained at the beginning of the study. The aim of this study is to understand to what extent TNCs can be expected to adhere to the norm of corporate social responsibility.