Theory U and CSR 2.0: Alignment of Two Conceptual Approaches to Create Profound Innovation and Transformative Change in Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility

Abstract

Wayne Visser’s CSR 2.0 Model provides a compelling vision of how business can create transformative improvements in society and the environment. Otto Scharmer’s Theory U describes how profound personal and collective change really happens. This paper explores how these two conceptual approaches can be aligned, thus providing insights into how to create the profound innovation and transformative change needed in the realm of corporate sustainability and responsibility.

Keywords: Corporate sustainability and responsibility, systemic CSR, transformative CSR, CSR 2.0, Theory U, U-process, leadership, business, adoption, transformative change

JEL Classification: M14, 031, Q20, M13