But this optimistic viewpoint depends on individuals/firms making broadly responsible decisions among the myriad choices and conflicting interests that buffet us every day. As long as the intentions are net positive (i.e., more responsible than irresponsible decisions are made) we are making progress. Given the many opposing temptations, however, ‘progress’ should not be taken for granted. In this light, consider the article in the url below, where Mallen Baker (Foreword, pxvii) suggests that:
“Don’t take it for granted which tendency will win out. It is possible we may have passed the high mark for corporate responsibility and it’s downhill from here. But there is still everything to play for.”
Baker argues that it is difficult economic times “that is the real test of which companies will hold the line on their values when things get tough.” To illustrate his point, Baker discusses BP’s recent decision to explore for oil in Russia in partnership with the Russian oil firm, Rosneft – a rational decision:
“… so long as you’re not overly concerned about where Rosneft got some of its assets, and are prepared to go through meetings without mentioning the word “Yukos”.”
Resources are becoming increasingly scarce worldwide. As a result, firms have to search for them in increasingly difficult to reach locations. Who do we want in charge of extracting these resources – BP, or another, potentially less law-abiding firm? Even if you are willing to grant BP a second (third, fourth…?) chance, the difficulties are apparent:
“… what happens when it’s do or die? When you need to secure those resources, and the only people that have got them don’t much care about anything other than lining their own pockets? Are you prepared to turn to the people that work for you and tell them that you’re laying them off in order to remain consistent with your values?”
As the man said:
“… there is still everything to play for.”
Take care
David
Instructor Teaching Site: http://www.sagepub.com/strategiccsr/
The library of CSR Newsletters are archived at: http://strategiccsr-sage.blogspot.com/
Corporate values: Keep hold of hard-won business responsibility
Making ethical choices is harder in touch economic times, but we still need to make them
Mallen Baker
January 27, 2011
Ethical Corporation Magazine
