ESG 시대, ‘사회적’(Social) 규범의 역사와 도전과제

This paper aspires to transcend the unidimensional perspective of corporate investment strategies and metrics within the discourse of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), with the objective of exploring the empowerment of social rights and the responsibility of supply chains from the standpoint of the common good. The first section of the paper introduces interconnected concepts associated with ESG and provides a overview of the complexities surrounding the empowerment of social rights and supply chain responsibility by delineating the historical evolution of the “social” (S) sector within the domain of corporate social responsibility. Subsequently, the paper confronts the inherent challenges within ESG discourse and practice. It underscores the limitations inherent in adopting a narrowly market-driven perspective that endeavors to reconcile the business performance of individual companies with the holistic development of communities. The contention put forth posits that the effective implementation of ESG necessitates a renovation of governance through a broader political lens that transcends the managerial strategies of individual firms. Moreover, it delves into the imperative of considering the intricate dynamics of political power that underpin efforts to promote specific values within the international community, particularly within a global political landscape where matters of value are susceptible to politicization. The paper underscores the significance of recognizing that effectively addressing multifaceted challenges demands acute awareness of international norms and institutions, discerning political acumen, and a public discourse that ardently seeks a just and equitable transition.