Disinterested Management: An Early Example of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Abstract

Disinterested management appears to be the antithesis of modern management theory. The word disinterest conveys a lack of concern whereas modern management involves being active controlling and administering the organisation towards success. Yet this management theory which originated in nineteenth century Sweden embraces an acknowledgment of corporate social responsibility in order to mitigate the anti-social consequences of the alcohol trade. This theory was successfully applied in managing the operations of the British nationalized brewery the State Management Scheme at Carlisle from 1916 until 1974 when it was sold off to the private brewing sector.

In an era of witnessing the anti-social consequences of insobriety the innovative lessons of disinterested management can offer solutions for balancing both profit motives and social objectives.