Job Description :

Write a 1,000-word academic essay that provides an in-depth, evidence-based analysis of the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and business ethics. The essay should critically examine theoretical foundations, ethical frameworks, practical applications, and empirical evidence demonstrating how CSR and ethical practices influence organizational performance, stakeholder trust, and long-term sustainability. The discussion must be supported by credible academic sources and formatted according to APA 7th edition guidelines.

1. Essay Structure and Content Requirements

1.1 Introduction (Approximately 120–150 words)

• Introduce the concepts of corporate social responsibility and business ethics.

• Explain why CSR and ethical behavior have become central issues in modern business environments.

• Clearly define corporate social responsibility and business ethics.

• Present a clear thesis statement outlining how ethical business practices and CSR initiatives contribute to organizational legitimacy, stakeholder value, and sustainable performance.

1.2 Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations (Approximately 180–220 words)

• Discuss key theories and ethical frameworks relevant to CSR and business ethics, such as:

  • Stakeholder Theory

  • Agency Theory

  • Legitimacy Theory

  • Utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics

• Explain how these theories provide a rationale for socially responsible and ethical business behavior.

• Support the discussion with peer-reviewed academic literature.

1.3 Dimensions and Practices of Corporate Social Responsibility (Approximately 250–280 words)

Analyze the major dimensions of CSR and their ethical implications:

• Economic Responsibility

  • Profitability, value creation, and responsible financial conduct

• Legal and Ethical Responsibility

  • Compliance with laws, corporate governance, ethical decision-making

• Social and Environmental Responsibility

  • Environmental sustainability, labor practices, community engagement

For each dimension, explain the concept and cite empirical research showing its impact on stakeholders, reputation, and organizational performance.

1.4 Empirical Evidence on CSR, Ethics, and Business Outcomes (Approximately 200–230 words)

• Present academic studies that empirically link CSR and ethical practices to business outcomes such as:

  • Financial performance

  • Brand reputation and consumer trust

  • Employee engagement and retention

  • Risk management and long-term sustainability

• Discuss whether CSR initiatives consistently lead to positive outcomes or if results vary by context, industry, or region.

1.5 Criticisms, Challenges, and Ethical Dilemmas (Approximately 100–120 words)

• Discuss criticisms of CSR, such as greenwashing, symbolic adoption, or conflicts with shareholder value maximization.

• Identify ethical dilemmas faced by firms when balancing profitability with social responsibility.

• Support the discussion with academic critiques and empirical findings.

1.6 Conclusion (Approximately 100–120 words)

• Restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented.

• Summarize key insights regarding the role of CSR and business ethics in modern organizations.

• Highlight implications for managers, policymakers, and future research.

• Avoid introducing new arguments or sources.

2. Academic and Research Standards

2.1 Sources

• Use a minimum of 8 credible academic sources, including:

  • Peer-reviewed journal articles

  • Academic books or book chapters

  • Reputable institutional or professional reports

• Prioritize sources published within the last 10–15 years, except for foundational theories.

2.2 Evidence-Based Writing

• Support all major claims with empirical evidence or established theory.

• Clearly explain how cited studies support the arguments being made.

3. APA 7th Edition Formatting Requirements

3.1 In-Text Citations

• Use APA author–date citation format (e.g., Carroll, 1991).

• Include page numbers for direct quotations.

3.2 Reference List

• Provide a separate References page.

• Alphabetize entries by the first author’s surname.

• Include DOIs where available.

• Ensure strict adherence to APA 7th edition formatting.

3.3 General Document Formatting

• Double-spaced text

• 12-point Times New Roman font (or academic equivalent)

• 1-inch margins on all sides

• Page numbers in the header

• Use clear and consistent section headings

4. Writing Quality and Style Guidelines

• Maintain a formal academic tone throughout.

• Avoid first-person language unless directly quoting a source.

• Ensure logical flow with clear topic sentences and transitions.

• Proofread carefully for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.

5. Optional Enhancements (Recommended but Not Required)

• Include a table or figure summarizing CSR dimensions and ethical outcomes (formatted in APA style).

• Briefly define key ethical concepts to improve clarity.

• Incorporate concise real-world examples supported by academic or institutional sources.

Final Submission Checklist

• Approximately 1,000 words (excluding references)

• Clear thesis and coherent structure

• Evidence-based analysis with academic citations

• Correct APA 7th edition formatting

• Clear, concise, and academically sound writing

Paste a Sample essay previously done below: