A New Rationale for Corporate Social Policy

To what extent can corporate involvement in social problem-solving be justified when such activity lies outside the usual framework of hte marketplace? In addressing themselves to this issue, the authors of these papers suggest that long-range corporate self-interest may be compatible with some types of social "do-goodism." They observe that to one degree or another many corporations are already involved in public-interest activities -- or would become involved if an adequate rationale were available.

In these papers, the authors examine various bases for a defense of corporate social involvement, examining the consequences and implications inherent in each approach to the problem.

Included papers:

• "Enlightened Self-Interest and Corporate Philanthropy" by William J. Baumol
• "The Influence of Social Research on Corporate Responsiblity" by Rensis Likert
• "Stockholder Interest and the Corporation's Role in Social Policy" by Henry C. Wallich and John J. McGowan