Beyond Profit

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from philanthropy into a strategic tool shaping consumer attitudes, building trust, and fostering ethical consumption. This chapter explores the CSR–consumer behavior relationship through global and Indian perspectives, outlining conceptual foundations and decision-making linkages. It examines practices across contexts with emphasis on India's Companies Act, 2013, which shifted CSR from compliance to impact-driven programs aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussion highlights CSR's role in enhancing brand credibility, loyalty, and value-based purchasing, while addressing challenges such as consumer skepticism, greenwashing, and structural barriers. Drawing on empirical insights and global data, it emphasizes the importance of transparency, innovation, and stakeholder engagement. The chapter concludes by suggesting pathways—sustainable innovation, personalized communication, youth participation, and circular economy models—to strengthen CSR's contribution to ethical consumption and inclusive growth.