The influence of Ancient Chinese Wisdom on Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure: A study of DAQO
This thesis examines the influence of Ancient Chinese Wisdom—Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism—on the CSR disclosure practices of Chinese Concept Stock companies, focusing on Daqo New Energy. A novel framework aligns these philosophical principles with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) indicators to create a unique CSR scoring index. Using an exploratory qualitative approach, the study combines qualitative content analysis of CSR reports with quantitative evaluation of disclosure scores to assess the impact of traditional values on modern corporate practices. Daqo New Energy integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, emphasizing governance, sustainable development, and community engagement. In 2021, the company invested RMB 1.015 million in charitable activities and donated 36.5 tons of disinfectant to local communities, reflecting a strong commitment to societal well-being. Key initiatives include protecting employee rights, investing in safety measures, and upholding environmental commitments such as green development and low-carbon strategies. These efforts align with core values of integrity, dedication, and innovation derived from Ancient Chinese Wisdom. However, the study identifies areas for improvement in aligning with Ancient Chinese philosophical principles. While Daqo emphasizes technological innovation and growth, there is potential for deeper integration of Daoist principles of harmony with nature and Buddhist concepts of compassion in their environmental and social strategies. Enhancing transparency in reporting and expanding stakeholder engagement can further align the company’s practices with Confucian ideals of ethical governance and community responsibility. The findings indicate that companies aligned with Ancient Chinese Wisdom principles provide higher-quality and more comprehensive CSR disclosures, particularly in stakeholder engagement, ethical governance, and environmental stewardship. This research offers valuable insights for enhancing CSR within the Chinese corporate governance context, recommending the integration of corporate strategies with cultural heritage to promote sustainable business practices.
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