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  • December 1995 (Revised November 1996)
  • Background Note
  • HBS Case Collection

Corporate Purpose and Responsibility

By: Lynn S. Paine
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:17
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Abstract

Presents several conceptions of corporate purpose and responsibility as articulated by a variety of groups and individuals during the period 1970-95. Included are materials from the Business Roundtable, the American Law Institute, the Royal Society of Arts and Manufacturers (U.K.), the U.S. Catholic Bishops, and excerpts from the writings of economist Milton Friedman and lawyer Christopher Stone. A brief introduction provides historical background on the corporate responsibility debate.

Keywords

Mission and Purpose; History; Corporate Social Responsibility and Impact

Citation

Paine, Lynn S. "Corporate Purpose and Responsibility." Harvard Business School Background Note 396-201, December 1995. (Revised November 1996.)
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About The Author

Lynn S. Paine

General Management
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More from the Author
  • What Does 'Stakeholder Capitalism' Mean to You?: A Guide to the Four Main Types By: Lynn S. Paine
  • Corporate Leaders Say They Are for Stakeholder Capitalism—But Which Version Exactly?: A Critical Look at Four Varieties By: Lynn S. Paine
  • Strive Asset Management By: Suraj Srinivasan, Lynn S. Paine and Aldo Sesia
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