Social Responsibilities of Business and Business Ethics Class 11 Notes: CBSE Business Studies Chapter 6

Concept of Social Responsibility

A business is an integral part of society and should operate in a manner that meets societal expectations. Social responsibility refers to the voluntary efforts made by businesses to contribute to the welfare of society. Since businesses use society's resources and earn profits from its members, they must give back and help improve social conditions.

Arguments in Favour of Social Responsibility

1. Justification for Existence and Growth: Businesses are created by society and must cater to societal needs to survive and grow in the long term.

2. Long-term Interest of the Firm: A business that prioritizes serving society builds a positive image and goodwill, ensuring long-term success. Unfair practices like hoarding or black marketing can damage a firm's reputation and sustainability.

3. Avoidance of Government Regulations: By voluntarily taking on social responsibilities, businesses can reduce the need for stringent government regulations.

4. Utilization of Resources: Businesses possess valuable financial and human resources that can be used to address social issues effectively.

5. Better Business Environment: By improving the quality of life and living standards, businesses can create a better environment for their operations.

6. Contribution to Social Problems: Businesses often contribute to social problems such as pollution or unsafe working conditions; therefore, they have a moral obligation to help solve these issues.

Arguments Against Social Responsibility

1. Profit Motive: Businesses are primarily economic entities driven by the motive to make profits, and social responsibilities could divert their focus and resources.

2. The burden on Consumers: Engaging in social responsibility involves costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers through higher prices.

3. Lack of Social Skills: Business managers may not have the expertise to tackle complex social problems like poverty or overpopulation, which should be addressed by social experts.

4. Lack of Public Support: Public confidence and cooperation are essential, but businesses may face resistance when engaging in social issues.

Social Responsibility Towards Different Interest Groups

Businesses interact with various interest groups, including shareholders, workers, consumers, government, and the community. They have specific responsibilities towards each group:

1. Responsibility Towards Shareholders:

• Ensure fair and regular returns on investments.

• Safeguard and grow the financial position of the company.

• Protect business assets and all types of investors.

2. Responsibility Towards Workers:

• Provide fair compensation and benefits.

• Maintain safe and conducive working conditions.

• Foster a sense of belongingness among employees.

3. Responsibility Towards Consumers:

• Supply high-quality goods and services at reasonable prices.

• Ensure regular and adequate product supply.

• Address customer grievances promptly and inform them about new products.

4. Responsibility Towards Government:

• Pay taxes honestly and follow government regulations.

• Avoid corrupt practices involving government employees.

5. Responsibility Towards Community:

• Create employment opportunities.

• Prevent environmental pollution.

• Support the upliftment of weaker sections of society.

Business and Environmental Protection

• Meaning of Environment: The environment encompasses all aspects of our surroundings, including natural resources like land, water, and air, as well as man-made elements like cultural heritage and socio-economic institutions.

• Meaning of Environmental Pollution: Environmental pollution involves the introduction of harmful substances into the environment, often a byproduct of industrial activities, leading to problems like air, water, land, and noise pollution.

Causes of Pollution

1. Air Pollution: Caused by emissions from factories and vehicles, leading to global warming and other environmental issues.

2. Water Pollution: Resulting from industrial waste being dumped into water bodies, harming aquatic life and posing risks to human health.

3. Land Pollution: Caused by the disposal of garbage and toxic waste, reducing land fertility and suitability for agriculture.

4. Noise Pollution: Created by industrial machinery and vehicles, leading to health problems like hearing loss, stress, and mental disorders.

Need for Pollution Control

1. Healthy Life: Pollution control is essential to prevent diseases like cancer and respiratory problems caused by environmental pollutants.

2. Safety: Reducing pollution helps improve visibility and reduce accidents, making environments safer.

3. Economic Losses: Pollution causes significant economic damage, such as the degradation of historical monuments like the Taj Mahal.

4. Public Image: Businesses that adopt pollution control measures are viewed positively as socially responsible entities.

Role of Business in Environmental Protection

1. Use of Eco-friendly Technology: Businesses should adopt clean and low-waste technologies.

2. Recycling: Industrial waste should be recycled as much as possible.

3. Modernization of Equipment: Plant and machinery should be updated to minimize pollution.

4. Compliance with Regulations: Businesses must follow environmental laws and regulations to prevent pollution.

5. Positive Initiatives: Companies should engage in activities like tree planting and cleaning water bodies to protect the environment.

Business Ethics

Definition: Business ethics refers to the moral principles that guide the behaviour of businesses. These standards define what is considered right and wrong in business practices. Ethics help managers and employees conduct their work in a manner that aligns with societal expectations. Examples of business ethics include charging fair prices, treating workers fairly, earning reasonable profits, and paying taxes honestly.

Elements of Business Ethics

1. Top Management Commitment: The commitment of senior management to ethical norms sets an example for all employees.

2. Publication of Code of Ethics: A formal document outlining the principles, values, and standards that guide a company’s actions.

3. Establishment of Compliance Mechanisms: A system should be in place to ensure that ethical standards are followed within the organization.

4. Employee Involvement: Employees at all levels should be involved in developing and implementing the ethical code.

5. Measuring Results: Although challenging, it is essential to evaluate and audit whether work is being conducted according to ethical standards.

Important Topics of Class 11 Chapter 6 Social Responsibility of Business and Business Ethics 

Here’s a table summarising the important topics:

Importance of Revision Notes for Class 11 Business Studies Chapter 6

• Summarises Key Points: Condenses important concepts for quick review.

• Saves Time: Provides a fast way to revise before exams.

• Highlights Essentials: Focuses on crucial topics and definitions like Excretion in plants and animals.

• Improves Memory: Helps in better retention of information.

• Enhances Exam Prep: Targets weak areas for more effective study.

• Clarifies Concepts: Simplifies complex ideas for easier understanding.

• Includes Visuals: Uses diagrams and charts for better grasp, as explained for blood circulation in the Human body.

• Boosts Confidence: Prepares students thoroughly for exams.

Tips for Learning the Class 11 Business Studies Chapter 6 

1. Focus on core processes with illustrations and examples.

2. Draw and label diagrams for clarity.

3. Create brief summaries of each process.

4. Connect concepts to everyday examples.

5. Solve past exam questions to test understanding.

6. Explain concepts to others to reinforce learning.

7. Revisit material frequently to retain information.

8. Utilise platforms like Vedantu for additional support.

Conclusion

Chapter 6 provides a thorough understanding of the social responsibility of businesses, emphasising the need for companies to balance profit-making with ethical practices and contributions to society. It covers the definition and scope of SR, its benefits, and the role of various stakeholders. By exploring practical examples and addressing the challenges of implementing SR, the chapter highlights the importance of integrating social responsibility into business strategies. This knowledge is crucial for recognising the broader impact of business activities on society and ensuring that businesses contribute positively to their communities.

Related Study Materials for Class 11 Business Studies Chapter 6

Revision Notes Links for Class 11 Business Studies

You can also access chapter-wise Revision Notes for Class 11 Business Studies from the links below and kick-start your preparation for Class 11 Board exams.

Other Important Study Material Links for Class 11 Business Studies