FROM PHILANTHROPY TO SUSTAINABILITY: THE EVOLUTION OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN BUSINESS RESEARCH

Abstract

This research examines the evolution of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from a philanthropic approach to sustainability in business. In the early stages, CSR was mostly realised in the form of donations or social support that was sporadic and not integrated with the company's core business strategy. However, along with the increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability, many companies began to adopt a more strategic and integrated approach to CSR. This research shows that sustainable CSR implementation not only provides social and environmental benefits, but also creates significant business value, including enhanced reputation, customer loyalty, and operational efficiency. Thus, the transformation from philanthropy to sustainability in CSR reflects an important shift where social responsibility becomes an integral part of business strategy that contributes to the achievement of sustainable economic, social, and environmental goals.