O'Boyle, "The role of international PR firms in the use of CSR to achieve harmonious society in mainland China and Hong Kong," 2007

Patrick M. O'Boyle, M.A

Abstract (Summary)

"Harmonious Society" is an idealized state of national being that today's Chinese Communist Party considers a solution to societal problems such as corruption, wealth disparity, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, pollution and worker unrest. Business---domestic and foreign---is the Party's top-ranking lieutenant in the campaign to achieve Harmonious Society. Corporate Social Responsibility is the tool that business will use to bring 1.3 billion Chinese into the 21 st century incarnation of the great socialist vision: national stability and equality for all citizens.

International PR firms create, enact and publicize CSR programs that complement the CCP's drive for Harmonious Society, genuinely benefit stakeholders and, ideally, earn clients the goodwill that will (theoretically) increase profits. This thesis explores how international PR firms operate in China's unique CSR environment. What is the state of CSR in China today and what does the future hold for international PR firms' efforts to conduct CSR business in China?

Advisor: Floto, Jennifer