Stakeholder Theory and Social Identity: Rethinking Stakeholder Identification

31 Pages Posted: 20 Aug 2010

See all articles by Andrew Crane

Andrew Crane

University of Bath - School of Management

Trish Ruebottom

York University - Schulich School of Business

Date Written: August 20, 2010

Abstract

In this paper we propose an adaption to stakeholder theory whereby stakeholders are conceptualized on the basis of their social identity. We begin by offering a critical review of both traditional and more recent developments in stakeholder theory, focusing in particular on the way in which stakeholder categories are identified. By identifying critical weaknesses in the existing approach, as well as important points of strength, we outline an alternative approach that refines our understanding of stakeholders in important ways. To do so, we draw on notions of social identity and identification as the fundamental basis for group cohesion, attention, mobilization, and action. A new form of cross-mapping as a basis for stakeholder identification is advanced and key research questions are set out.

Suggested Citation

Crane, Andrew and Ruebottom, Trish, Stakeholder Theory and Social Identity: Rethinking Stakeholder Identification (August 20, 2010). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1662437 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1662437

Andrew Crane (Contact Author)

University of Bath - School of Management ( email )

Claverton Down
Bath, BA2 7AY
United Kingdom

HOME PAGE: http://www.bath.ac.uk/management/faculty/andrew-crane.html

Trish Ruebottom

York University - Schulich School of Business ( email )

4700 Keele Street
Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3
Canada

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