introduction
IN SCIENCE, BUSINESS AND SOCIETY
BUSINESS IN SOCIETY The relationship between business and society is on the corporate agenda. Companies are increasingly faced with social and environmental issues surrounding their business activities. Their response to these issues has a profound impact on how these companies appear in the public eye, and how their corporate success is being defined. Leading a successful business in the twenty-first century is therefore as much about competitiveness, growth and profitability as it is about sustainable governance, ethical leadership and social responsibility. In fact, today’s leading companies, such as Apple, BMW and Philips, are well known for viewing their interaction with society as an important pillar of their business strategy, and an integral part of their corporate culture. The example of these companies signal that a sustainable business community is – and should be - part of society, instead of existing separately from it. Together with the contributors to this journal, we dedicate this issue of Amsterdam in Science, Business and Society to the theme ‘Business in Society’. The selected articles featured in this issue offer a multidisciplinary perspective on this theme. Herewith, we - the Amsterdam Business Research Institute - aim to promote and facilitate open conversations and exchanges of ideas between academia and the business world. We also aim to open up possibilities for new collaborations, and the building of a stronger business community, rooted in society and propelled by science. Prof. dr. Svetlana Khapova Scientific Director Amsterdam Business Research Institute Niki Konijn MA Policy Officer Amsterdam Business Research Institute
ABRI - Amsterdam Business Research Institute
PAGE
5