From Ephemeral to Enduring: A Triple Mechanism Framework for CSR Persistence

• In Event: 20867 - Problem-Solving Sociology of Development

Abstract

This study examines the factors driving the persistence of entrepreneurial engagement in public welfare projects by proposing a triple mechanism framework that integrates political mobilization, economic incentives, and social embeddedness. Despite growing corporate involvement in corporate social responsibility (CSR), sustained engagement remains rare, with many initiatives short-lived and driven by reputational concerns rather than a commitment to long-term social impact.

This research leverages an extensive dataset drawn from China’s targeted poverty alleviation campaign—the “Ten Thousand Enterprises Helping Ten Thousand Villages” initiative—implemented from 2016 to 2020. The dataset encompasses over 280,000 assistance records from more than 124,000 enterprises across 137,500 villages, providing a unique opportunity to quantitatively test theoretical predictions in a state-led development context.

The study examines five hypotheses, positing that enterprises with stronger government ties or political pressure, those engaging with villages of higher economic potential, and those supporting geographically proximate communities are more likely to maintain long-term CSR involvement. Moreover, the analysis explores compensation effects, suggesting that political mobilization and local social ties are particularly influential in economically disadvantaged areas, while expected economic returns play a greater role in areas with greater potential.

By shifting the focus from the initiation of CSR activities to the determinants of their longevity, this study offers new insights into state-market-society relations in development. It underscores the need for contextually adaptive strategies to promote enduring corporate participation in addressing systemic social challenges, thereby contributing to broader debates on development, governance, and sustainable social welfare.

Authors

• Peng Lu, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

• Fan Fu, University of California-San Diego