In Pursuit of Principle and Profit Business Success Through Social Responsibility

Throughout the world, progressive business owners and executives are making a commitment to running their companies in more socially responsible ways. Combining stockholders' interests with broader social concerns and personal dedication to ethical practices, these pioneers are transforming the corporation from strictly a money-making venture that does well to a corporate citizen that also does good. In Pursuit of Principle and Profit is a highly accessible and comprehensive guide to this new trend. Full of anecdotes and analysis by business leaders who subscribe to this farsighted vision, it shows how companies that wish to equip themselves for long-term success must consider both the human and environmental consequences of every business decision. Focusing on the pragmatic advantages of socially responsible practices, Alan Reder covers various corporate policies concerning, among others: preparing companies for sustainability; hiring and promoting a diverse work force; handling sexual harassment and other worksite issues; developing ecologically sound practices and product design; helping employees care for their families and find deep personal fulfillment at work; providing safe, non-toxic environments; purchasing in a socially conscious manner; offering community leadership; operating in underdeveloped countries; and auditing ethical and "green" performance. Looking to the future, Reder explores the growing impact on business of socially conscious investors and consumers, and concludes that companies, in order to thrive, will have to be socially committed from the boardroom to the loading dock.