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Publication Date

3-2004

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The world economy is now more integrated than ever before. With improved technology in communications and transportation and the explosion of new trade markets, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement ("NAFTA"), the United States has expanded its economic grip to countries all over the world. The United States is at the forefront of the ever-expanding global economy.

Globalization has enabled many U.S. companies to achieve incredible financial success. In fact, many global corporations are now enormous economic giants with economies that rival those of many developing countries. For example, in 2000 Exxon-Mobil's gross sales were $210.3 billion while Indonesia's Gross Domestic Product ("GDP") was $153 million. Today, Exxon-Mobil's sales are greater than the GDP of most countries in the world. But Exxon-Mobil is one of many major corporations in the world. Of the largest economies in the world, more than half are corporations. ...

This Article explores corporate social responsibility as it applies to U.S. corporations operating in other countries. The issues raised in this Article only scratch the surface. Part II provides a brief narrative on the history of the corporation and the role corporations play in today's society. Part III examines the economic and political power of corporations. Part IV takes a closer look at corporate activities, including civil and human rights violations. Part V examines the relationships among freedom and democracy and global corporations. Finally, Part VI provides comments and suggestions on how to improve the social responsibility of corporations operating in other countries.

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