Are B corps really the answer? Addressing the market versus social logic problem through a regenerative system of good dividends

Kempster, Steve (2021) Are B corps really the answer? Addressing the market versus social logic problem through a regenerative system of good dividends. In: Maak, Thomas, Pless, Nicola, Orlitzky, Marc and Sandhu, Sukhbir, (eds.) The Routledge companion to corporate social responsibility. Routledge, New York, US, pp. 355-368.

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Abstract

Hybrid businesses have an underlying challenge associated with embracing capitalism—a sense of drinking with the devil to pursue purpose through profit. This chapter examines this challenge through the notion of logics: the social logic versus the market logic in the context of hybrid businesses. It reviews how B Corps, often referred to as a hybrid business model, appear to replicate this clash of logics. A reframing of purpose through profit is outlined by giving prominence to an integrative process of value creation: the notion of good dividends. Such reframing offers up the potential for all forms of business moving into the agenda of being a force for good because of the intent to enhance all capitals, including planetary capital. By integrating planetary capital, as a central aspect of the business model, there is scope for business to reach beyond sustainability and pursue its potential to generate good dividends through the commitment of responsible leadership.

Item Type:	Book Section
Publisher:	Routledge
ISBN:	9781003152651
Departments:	Institute of Business, Industry and Leadership > Business
Additional Information:	Chapter 28 within book.
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	23 Mar 2023 18:05
Last Modified:	13 Jan 2024 12:30
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/7009

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