Introduction: CSR Communication as an Emerging Field of Study

Purpose This chapter is to introduce to the reader the background, purpose, core themes and structure of the volume. Brief summaries of all the following chapters in the book are provided. Design/methodology/approach Literature review and desk research. Findings This chapter suggests that CSR communication as a cross-section of communication studies and CSR research should be highlighted as an important subject of inquiry to bridge the communicative gap between businesses and their stakeholders as well as the public at large. An initial theoretical framework on CSR communication is presented. Research implications A general research direction is provided for CSR communication. It encourages more future scholarly studies in this emerging and fascinating field. Social/practical implications The overall purpose is to help grow knowledge and develop understanding of the ways in which businesses communicate CSR. Originality/value It is the first time in the field of CSR communication that a relatively comprehensive and systematic framework is presented. The chapters that follow in the book cover many contents of the framework.