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Trainer’s Notes:

This slide presents a historical overview of how Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has
evolved over the last two centuries — from philanthropic roots to a strategic business

imperative.

1. Early Foundations (1812): Robert Owen was a pioneer of socially conscious business. He

introduced workplace improvements that focused on employee welfare and community
development — a radical idea at the time.

2. Modern Framework (1960–1979): Scholars like Keith Davis and Archie Carroll helped
formalize CSR theory. Carroll’s model identified four layers of responsibility:

• Economic (profitability)

• Legal (compliance)
• Ethical (doing what’s right)

• Philanthropic (giving back to society)

This layered view made CSR more structured and measurable.
3. Strategic Integration (1990s–2000s): In this period, CSR shifted from “nice to have” to core

business strategy. Carroll and Schwartz’s Three-Domain Model further integrated ethical,
legal, and economic goals, recognizing that companies could align social impact with profit.

4. Shared Value (2007–Present): Michael Porter and Mark Kramer introduced the concept of
shared value, where social progress is seen as essential to business success. It’s not about

donating — it’s about innovating. For example, hiring neurodivergent individuals not only
addresses inequality but also strengthens the workforce.

This historical lens helps us see that CSR is not static — it evolves with societal expectations,
market conditions, and leadership vision.

Suggestions

Reflection Prompt:

“What do you think caused the shift from philanthropic CSR to strategic CSR? Was it

regulation, public pressure, or market forces?”

Activity Idea:

Create small groups and assign each group a stage. Ask them to brainstorm: A hospitality
example that reflects that CSR phase; One potential benefit and one challenge at that stage.

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Project Number 2023-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000152721