Which description best defines corporate social responsibility (CSR)?

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is best defined as a business practice that engages in ethical behavior. This perspective recognizes that companies have obligations to various stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the environment, beyond just generating profits for shareholders. CSR encompasses a wide range of practices such as sustainable business practices, community engagement, ethical supply chain management, and transparent marketing.

Incorporating CSR into a company's operations can enhance its brand reputation, build customer loyalty, and foster employee satisfaction, all of which can contribute to long-term profitability. Rather than merely focusing on financial gains, CSR emphasizes the importance of considering the broader impact of business decisions on society and the environment.

This understanding of CSR contrasts significantly with the focus of maximizing shareholder profit, which prioritizes financial returns over ethical considerations. While regulations may impose certain standards on corporate behavior, CSR transcends compliance by advocating for a voluntary commitment to ethical conduct. Additionally, while internal policies for employee management are essential aspects of a business, they do not encapsulate the broader social and ethical dimensions that CSR involves.