Applying the theoretical lens of organizational institutionalism, this study analyzes the spread of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Austrian corporate world. The objectives are threefold: First, to explore the institutional framework in place; second, to explain the dissemination of CSR in terms of adopters’ characteristics and field-level pressures; and third, to understand the structuring dimensions of meaning within the CSR discourse. The findings demonstrate that a specific sub-population is more inclined to espouse commitment to CSR policies. Against the background of an ambiguous nature and definition of CSR, this study also shows how actor categories and divergent thematic embeddings serve as a basis for the concept’s theorization, and elaborates on a distinct constellation of empirical sub-discourses.

Markus A. Höllerer studied Business Administration and Philosophy in Vienna (Austria) and received his doctoral degree in Social and Economic Sciences from Vienna University of Economics and Business in 2010. Currently, he is affiliated with the Australian School of Business at the University of New South Wales in Sydney (Australia).

Leseprobe

Contents: Addressing Business’ Responsibilities toward Society – Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – Theoretical Orientation: Organizational Institutionalism – Methodology: Tracking Discursive Traces – Empirical Setting: CSR in Austria – Career of CSR – Reconstructing the Meaning of CSR – Contributions, Limitations, and Outlook.