CSR of Platform Enterprises in the Era of Digitalization

Abstract

The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has a long history and has always been a topic of controversy. Scholars have continuously researched it without pause. During the traditional phase dominated by manufacturing industries, scholars debated whether companies should assume social responsibility and what specific responsibilities they should fulfill. The theories of shareholder orientation and stakeholder theory emerged in this context. In the present era of digitalization, which has reshaped traditional business models and significantly impacted people’s work and lives, platform enterprises have not only contributed to economic development but have also brought forth prominent social issues. These issues include allegations of monopolistic behavior, leakage of user information, and infringement of consumer rights. To varying degrees, these challenges expose the lack of social responsibility in platform enterprises and the absence of effective legislation and regulation. This paper explores the legal and regulatory dilemmas faced by platform enterprises in fulfilling social responsibility in the digital age, and discuss the innovation and governance of social responsibility from individual, corporate, and societal perspectives.