Die Gesellschaft und ihre Unternehmen: ein wirtschafts-soziologischer Blick auf Corporate Social Responsibility

Abstract

Why do companies decide to act socially responsible? Based on the assumption of individual rights of action (concept of sovereignty), first the increase of companies as a new type of actor can be explained. Secondly, this new actor develops own goals, gains power and thus influences and even threatens the direct and socially defined interests of individuals. Sociological analyses show that other social measures besides the market and the state can influence the companies to act socially responsible. These social measures are primarily forms of social embeddedness and institutions which define and legitimize social concerns. They are especially successful when they are compatible with the companies' economic interests. From a sociological viewpoint social movements, collective forms of protest, standards and associations are essential social mechanisms while at the same time their actions are limited by the existing economic conditions.