Abstract

This thematic paper entitled “Development of Corporate Social Responsibility in Buddhist Perspective” had two objectives – (1) to study problems and concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (2) to study development of Corporate Social Responsibility in Buddhist perspective by analyzing data from documents and related research papers.

Regarding the problems and the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility it was found that concept for business management is based on Individualism which focuses on one’s own benefit. It affects to human relationships in society formed by mutual benefit, people understand things separately (not holistically) and be able to manage nature as they wish in order to achieve their own maximal benefit. These cause many economic, social and natural environment problems. Then people request for more business responsible management according to the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).           

Regarding the development of Corporate Social Responsibility in Buddhist perspective, the research findings reveal that the concept of CSR is based on a part in Buddhism since the beginning of the Buddhist Era and developed by academicians till present. CSR in Buddhist perspective is Middle Way Economics ; moderation with attainment of well-being and not harming oneself or others including natural environment. When business earns income in right ways, then share income back to others that harmonize mutual happiness and benefit in society. Besides, practicing the Noble Eightfold Path (Aṭṭhaṅgika-magga), which  is  formed  into  bases of

meritorious action (Puňňakiriyā-vatthu), leads social responsibility of business management in body, speech and mind. This truly develops both economy and mind together.