Exploring responsibility

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this final paper in the special issue is to extend the critical conversation that has run through this journal about the meaning and practice of responsibility. It will draw together material from the other papers, summarise what is meant by responsibility and offer suggestions for further research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a critical analysis of the concept of responsibility in relation to practice.

Findings

The paper argues for the importance of a holistic view of responsibility focused in individual and organisational practice of the virtues.

Practical implications

The paper argues for increased dialogue between key stakeholders about the practice and development of responsibility, and for developments in pedagogy that will connect all aspects of ideas, values and practice.

Social implications

There is typically a low level of appreciation of what responsibility means. This paper raises this awareness and identifies what responsibility looks like. It emphasises the importance of engraining a responsibility culture in the organisation, and continued dialogue between within, and beyond institutions.

Originality/value

The paper provides a virtue‐based approach that is based in critical dialogue, extending responsibility beyond conventional CSR thinking and providing the basis of what is a form of universal responsibility. This leads to a unique view of responsibility in culture and the curriculum.

Citation

Robinson, S.J. and Smith, J. (2012), "Exploring responsibility", Journal of Global Responsibility, Vol. 3 No. 1, pp. 151-166. https://doi.org/10.1108/20412561211219346