Driving corporate social responsibility to be innovative: Insights from a systematic literature review

Abstract

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is increasingly under pressure to tackle social and environmental challenges using innovative approaches that benefit both companies and society. This study presents a comprehensive overview of the relevant research on the intersection of CSR and innovation since 1996. Through a bibliometric analysis and literature review of 1362 articles, the study identifies three distinct stages in the evolution of this dual theme: an infancy stage (1996–2005), a rapid growth stage (2006–2015), and an explosive growth stage (2016‐present). By analyzing the studies, subfields, and theories in each stage, we identify the approaches and challenges in CSR innovation research. Notably, digital organizational culture, sensitivity analysis, and social enterprise have emerged as current major concerns, while sustainable development and analysis methods have emerged as challenges in addressing CSR innovation. Based on these findings, we propose several future research opportunities for CSR innovation research.