Cultivating CSR: The Artistic Influence of Top Executives on Corporate Responsibility

Jinli Xiao (), Weijuan Liang (), Yue Pan () and Gary Gang Tian ()
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Jinli Xiao: Xiamen University
Weijuan Liang: Xiamen University
Yue Pan: Xiamen University
Gary Gang Tian: Macquarie University

Journal of Business Ethics, 2025, vol. 201, issue 1, No 8, 145-167

Abstract: Abstract This study examines the impact of top executives’ art exposure on corporate social responsibility (CSR) through the lens of altruistic motivations. Utilizing data on artistic elements from China’s national intangible cultural heritage (ICH), we find a significant positive relationship between board chairs’ art exposure and CSR performance, particularly when the arts are influential and popular. The effect is more pronounced among female, older, and local board chairs, and in firms with a CSR committee, greater board− CEO cultural proximity, lower corporate risk, and those in culturally vibrant regions. Mechanism analyses reveal that art exposure increases board chairs’ likelihood of engaging with the arts and reduces socially irresponsible behaviors. However, CSR performance in firms led by board chairs with extensive art exposure is negatively associated with firm value. These findings suggest that board chairs with rich art exposure engage in CSR primarily driven by altruistic motives rather than self-interest. Overall, the study underscores the role of artistic engagement in promoting altruism and enhancing CSR, advocating for the integration of the arts into business strategies.

Keywords: Top executives’ art exposure; Intangible cultural heritage; Corporate social responsibility; Cultural economics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10551-025-05923-z

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