The Capitalist and the Activist

This first in-depth examination of corporate social activism analyzes its history, provides case studies of recent success stories, and explores the promises and perils for both sides when capitalists and activists partner to promote social progress.


Corporations and their executives are at the forefront of some of the most contentious and important social issues of our time. Through pronouncements, policies, boycotts, sponsorships, lobbying, and fundraising, corporations are actively engaged in issues like immigration reform, gun regulation, racial justice, gender equality, and religious freedom.

Despite corporate social activism being everywhere these days-witness how quickly companies and progressives united to oppose North Carolina's "bathroom bill" or support the Black Lives Matter movement-there has been no in-depth examination of the far-reaching consequences of this movement. What first principles should guide businesses' approaches? How should activists engage with businesses in a way that is most beneficial to their causes? What are potential pitfalls and risks associated with corporate social activism for activists, businesses, and society at large? Weaving studies and stories, Temple University professor of law, Tom C. W. Lin offers a road map for how we got here and a compass for where we are going as a nation of capitalists and activists seeking profit and progress.