Lin, "Profit through goodwill: Corporate social responsibility in China and Taiwan," 2006

I-Ling Lin, M.A

Abstract (Summary)

As China captures the business world's attention, governments, corporations, and entrepreneurs have begun to establish novel operating models, trends and guidelines for conducting business. Meanwhile, intractable social problems emerging from shifts in business approaches---such as severe pollution and unethical labor practices---take on a greater urgency in Asian countries. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) was introduced to China from western countries as a possible solution to the vexing social problems arising from the rapid economic growth. This study examines current CSR practices in China and Taiwan. A situation analysis of the current social and economic environment in China was followed up by interviews and website research of major Chinese corporations.

This analysis concludes that corporate social responsibility can offer one solution to current Chinese social problems created by the rapid economic growth as foreign investors are pressured to demand higher ethical standards for their Chinese business partners.

Advisor: Light, Gail