What is Corporate Social Responsibility? - InnoTrain CSR

What is Corporate Social Responsibility?
1.9. CSR in history
In short
The term "respectable businessman" describes the model for responsibility in
economic life which has been growing in Europe since the 12th century. A
"reputable businessman" acts on virtues that pursue long-term economic
success without interfering with the interests of society. His economic
activities are sustainable.
Learning targets
� Get to know the history of responsible corporate management based on the
"reputable businessman" and discuss it using a practical example
CSR learning contents
The model of the reputable businessman has been taught in business manuals in
Europe since the 12th century. It is rooted in Italy and the North German Hanse
League of Cities. The reputability is based on the businessman's practical skills to
pursue successful economic activities as well as his character traits which are
supposed to help him promote the long-term business success while at the same
time upholding social peace in his city.
Aside from the practical skills of the "reputable businessman" which essentially allow
him to carry out his business activities, the historic review reveals the following
character traits and virtuous conduct:
� Creating trust
� Tolerance
� Love of peace
� Courteousness
� Smartness
� Orderliness
� Promotion of the arts
These days, the responsibility of the "reputable businessman" as entrepreneur or
manager covers a much broader scope than in the historic past. Because
responsibility in companies and organisations goes beyond their own activities,
extending to employees, suppliers, business partners (as well as other stakeholders)
The project "InnoTrain CSR" is organized by GILDE GmbH and has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication reflects the
views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. 12/2010
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InnoTrain CSR
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