Disclosing Current Insights: A Bibliometric Analysis of CSR and Corporate Performance Trends

Abstract

In this paper we conduct a systematic bibliometric analysis to explore the correlation between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate performance. Despite extensive research on CSR’s financial impact, this study aims to offer fresh insights by systematically examining trends and origins in the literature from 2012 to 2022. Additionally, by integrating theoretical foundations with bibliometric analysis, our study addresses a critical gap in the literature, advancing an understanding of CSR’s role in shaping sustainable business practices. Through the analysis of 283 articles using PRISMA, we observe a significant rise in publications on CSR’s impact, especially in Chinese and American contexts, which highlight themes like sustainable development and CSR reporting. By comparing these findings to existing literature, our study contributes to understanding CSR’s evolution. We emphasize the importance of future research that explores these interactions, particularly in African countries, to comprehend CSR’s development in diverse contexts. In conclusion, our research provides original insights into the evolving relationship between CSR practices and corporate performance, guiding future scholarly exploration. This study’s novelty lies in its comprehensive analysis of recent literature, revealing emerging themes and connections in CSR and corporate performance research, thereby enhancing both its practical and theoretical relevance.