Table of Contents

1 Executive Summary
2 CSR Background
2.1 Definition of CSR
2.2 Evolution of CSR
2.3 Emergence of CSR
3 Literature Review
3.1 Carroll's CSR Pyramid
3.2 Purpose of the firm and how that shapes views on CSR
3.3 Arguments for and against CSR
3.3.1 Arguments Against
3.3.2 Arguments For
3.3.3 Summary of the key debates
4 Methodology
5 CSR at Apple Inc.
5.1 Apple's profile
5.2 Reasons to engage in CSR
5.3 CSR policies at Apple Inc.
5.4 Type of CSR approach taken by Apple Inc.
5.5 Key dilemmas within CSR challenges
5.5.1. Labour and human rights
5.5.2. Workers’ health and safety
5.6 CSR tactics at Apple Inc.
6 Conclusion
7 References

Word Count: 2837
1 Executive Summary

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been highly regarded by most corporations. However, the exact reason why corporations implement CSR initiatives is often very vague and confusing to others. This paper will explore in depth how international corporations are motivated to incorporate CSR into the business strategies and how they deal with it.

Based on academic references, the report firstly outlined the CSR background as well as some theory and key debates about CSR. Then, the methodology was summarized. After that, the case study of Apple Inc. was used to demonstrate the reasons for implementing CSR initiatives in depth. Following that, the types of dilemmas the company faced, the CSR approach and tactics it used were analyzed. Finally, a conclusion was drawn at the end of the paper.

2 CSR Background

2.1 Definition of CSR

In accordance with European Commission (2001), the modern corporate social responsibility (CSR) is “a concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis.” However, there are some changes in the meaning and