The argument continues as to what extent corporations should directly help society with its many problems. Business for Social Responsibility is a U.S. Trade Group made up of fifty-five charter members who seek to change the basic way business is done by making social, environmental, and worker friendly practices part of the corporate culture and policy. Should corporations act in a voluntary manner, or should government force them to act in socially acceptable manner. Businesses need direction to help prioritize the social needs of society. The government assists by enacting regulations that signify the importance of the goal.
Regulations also help level the playing field.
It eliminates a potential competitive advantage that a socially irresponsible company might have otherwise. Businesses that comply with the laws and regulations are meeting the minimum required level of social good. Having the vision to see a social problem developing, and acting to help resolve the problem before it becomes larger. A social problem will ultimately affect companies. Legal Requirements versus Corporate Social Responsibility.