Human Security and the Politics of Corporate Social Responsibility in China

Robert J. Hanlon examines the political dynamics of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the 'Asian Century' and its place in an increasingly multipolar world. He argues that the liberal economic order is wavering and Western governments and multinational corporations are seeking new strategies to compete against China. CSR emerges as a political tool for states and business actors, and the book adopts a human security approach to assess the weaponization of political values within an increasingly fragmented rule-based liberal order.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2022
Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd

Robert J. Hanlon delves into the intricate political dynamics of corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the framework of the 'Asian Century' and its significance in an increasingly multipolar world. By examining how social responsibility is reshaping the discourse surrounding trade, development, and diplomacy, Hanlon sheds light on how competing visions of social responsibility are shaping political narratives in China and the West. He explores multipolarity, the construction of 'Global China,' and the rise of competitive pluralism. The chapters argue that the liberal economic order established at Bretton Woods is experiencing a weakening, as Western governments and multinational corporations seek new strategies to compete with China, particularly in emerging economies characterized by weak governance structures and dysfunctional rule of law. As CSR emerges as a political tool for states and business actors, this timely book adopts a human security approach to assess the weaponization of political values within an increasingly fragmented rule-based liberal order.

Expanding on the themes of constructivism, competitive pluralism, and progressive neoliberalism, while introducing the novel concept of developmental CSR, this forward-thinking book offers valuable insights for students, scholars, and policymakers interested in Asian politics, public policy, CSR, and international relations.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788971935