Institute for Public Relations

Messages about the environment have increased significantly within the past decade and are especially evident around Earth Day when people gather to celebrate efforts to protect our environment. Attempts to “Go Green” have not only influenced public policy makers, they have influenced organizations and corporations that are communicating about social responsibility in both the public and private sectors. This study – recognized by the Institute as one of the Top Three Papers submitted to the 2010 International public Relations Research Conference -examines the dynamics of conflict between an organization and its activist ...

This paper is a two-tiered exploration of Corporate Responsibility and Communication. It begins with an exploration of the history, theory, and other drivers of Corporate Responsibility, and is matched with qualitative research with representatives from companies heralded for their CR practice to answer the questions: “what drives an organizations’ CR communication? How does the organization’s communication support or conflict with its efforts to be sustainable and meet stakeholder expectations?” Ends with commentary on trends in the data, in the industry, recommendations for further research, and thoughts on the future of CR.

The purpose of this paper is to ground and expand the examination and appreciation of community relations, and to foster additional theorizing. Our continuing review of CSR literature and best practices leads us to two basic conclusions. First, although the scholarly literature and best practices commentary often treat CSR as a singular concept with universal meaning, the reality is that it is a complex quilt cut from different fabrics. Even a casual reading, often prompted by the sort of theme featured in research and commentary, suggests that even though an article or book might ...

As we focus on the “triangle” of reputation, relationship, and responsive rectitude, we get a clear picture of the conditions and strategic presentation of organizations engaged proactively in the CSR movement. We have much to learn from scholarly literature. And, we can gain insights from heavily engaged organizations. There is a growing commitment to not view profit as being at odds with CSR. In fact, if we focus on doing the right thing and thinking about sustainable business activities as sustainable environment and markets, we come close to finding our directions on ...

Heath and Ni offer their reactions to comments by Robert B. Reich (Goldman School of Public Policy, University of California, Berkeley) in his paper, “The Case Against Corporate Responsibility.”  In a long and thoughtful statement on CSR, Robert B. Reich noted that the topic is widely taught and discussed in business schools. It is a top of the list topic recruiters look for when interviewing job candidates. He even notes the continuing effort by “social auditors” to measure progress and success in achieving higher CSR standards. And, he observed that NGO’s and their ...

This essay discusses the perplexities and challenges of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The essay features the “what”, “why”, and “how” of CSR. The Challenge of Corporate Responsibility To augment the Essential Knowledge Project, this essay discusses the perplexities and challenges of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The essay features the “what,” “why,” and “how” of CSR. As they help formulate CSR standards and give voice to organizations, public relations practitioners can use experts’ carefully considered thoughts as well as research findings to determine the best plan of action. Internally and externally, practitioners can help build ...