We Prefer Merlot With a Hint of Altruism
New research finds consumers like products more if the companies that produced them are perceived as morally good.
Social Responsibility
Rush Limbaugh’s Non-Apology Apology
Research reveals the rhetorical tricks Rush Limbaugh used to minimize personal responsibility as he apologized to the woman he called a slut.
We're Sorry: Not All Apologies Are Apologies
Politicians take note: Research shows the fine line between claiming regret and taking responsibility.
Obama's Social Innovation Group Tabs Five Programs
Program to bring an entrepreneurial approach to social problems doles out some more money from its small kitty.
Strong Social Bonds Promote Health, Belonging — and Torture
New research finds people who feel a strong connection with their social group are more likely to dehumanize outsiders.
Teaching Empathy to the 'Me' Generation
A Midwestern university experiments in teaching empathy not merely through classroom curriculum, but by having students live the lives of the working poor.
Are Facebook, Twitter Fostering Civic Engagement?
While some argue that using Facebook, using Twitter and using their peers have awakened democracy in repressive lands, others argue they are lulling civic engagement to sleep in democracies.
Alcoa and Corporate Social Responsibility — Rhetoric vs. Reality
Alcoa has made "Fortune" magazine's list of Most Admired Companies and the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Index, but the aluminum company's rhetoric doesn't always match its performance.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Meet Transparency
Most major companies around the world have embraced the linked ideas of sustainability and responsibility. More of them need to embrace a sustainable and responsible reality.
DuPont and Corporate Social Responsibility — Rhetoric vs. Reality
DuPont is proud of its "publicly established environmental goals," but the company has also faced lawsuits over allegations of contamination, and it's associated with 103 Superfund sites.
Companies Meeting Corporate Responsibility With Sincerity
Patagonia, Honest Tea, The Timberland Company and Seventh Generation Inc. talk the talk of corporate social responsibility and appear to walk the walk.
Cargill and Corporate Social Responsibility — Rhetoric vs. Reality
Cargill has also endured food recalls, environmental lawsuits and deforestation claims despite claiming that "corporate responsibility is part of everything we do."
Office of Social Innovation Creates Public-Private Answers
Arguing that while government may not be the answer, it can be part of the answer, the newish Office of Social Innovation leverages issue-oriented entrepreneurship with federal dollars.
How to B Good
B Lab wants to separate companies that merely claim they are responsible from those that actually do good in the world. But can a logo really change the way America does business?