Toward a Doctrine of Socially Responsible Marketing (SRM): A Macro and Normative-Ethical Perspective
Document Type
Article
Language
eng
Publication Date
6-1-2021
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Source Publication
Journal of Macromarketing
Source ISSN
0276-1467
Abstract
In this conceptual article, the authors use a macro-level analysis and normative ethical theory to delineate and to explicate a doctrine of socially responsible marketing (SRM). Applying a theory-in-formation approach, we postulate a literature-informed definition of SRM. We discuss why a macro and normative-ethical rather than a micro and positive-descriptive perspective is essential to justifying the elements of SRM. We explore and explain why the roots of an authentic doctrine of SRM can be discerned from the literatures of marketing history, corporate social responsibility, institutional economics and moral philosophy. In so doing, the mandate to engage in socially responsible marketing is shown to be anchored in a social contract. This conception offers three essential elements of SRM—corporate citizenship, stakeholder orientation and social/ecological sustainability—each of which augers a pro-social rather than instrumental-financial approach to marketing practice. We recommend a specific normative-ethical standard, embodied in distributive justice, to best evaluate SRM. We counsel adopting a macromarketing perspective of constructive engagement for those seeking responsible marketing for a better society and world. Finally, we offer a short research agenda for advancing Marketing’s embrace of SRM.
Recommended Citation
Laczniak, Gene R. and Schultz, Clifford, "Toward a Doctrine of Socially Responsible Marketing (SRM): A Macro and Normative-Ethical Perspective" (2021). Marketing Faculty Research and Publications. 287.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/market_fac/287
Comments
Accepted version. Journal of Macromarketing, Vol. 41, No. 2 (June 1, 2021): 201-231. DOI. © 2021 Sage Publications. Used with permission.