, COM2611 PORTFOLIO SEMESTER 1 2026 ANSWERS - DUE DATE 19 MAY 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1
1.1.1 Philanthropic Responsibility
Philanthropic responsibility refers to the voluntary actions taken by a business to improve the
well-being of society, beyond what is required by law or economic obligations. According to
Archie B. Carroll, philanthropy forms part of the broader Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) pyramid and includes activities such as donations, community upliftment, and support
for education. In this case, McDonald’s demonstrated philanthropic responsibility by
donating desks to schools, thereby addressing a significant social need.
The donation of desks contributes directly to improving the learning environment for learners,
particularly in under-resourced schools where infrastructure challenges persist. By providing
essential classroom furniture, McDonald’s supports better concentration, comfort, and
dignity for learners, which ultimately enhances educational outcomes. This action is not
driven by profit but by a desire to contribute positively to society, aligning with the idea that
businesses should play a role in community development (Kotler & Lee, 2023). Furthermore,
such initiatives help build strong relationships between the company and the community,
fostering goodwill and trust (Visser, 2024).
1.1.2 Ethical Responsibility
Ethical responsibility refers to the obligation of businesses to act in a manner that is fair, just,
and morally acceptable, even when such actions are not legally required. Archie B. Carroll
emphasises that ethical responsibilities go beyond compliance with the law and reflect
society’s expectations of responsible corporate behaviour. McDonald’s donation of desks can
be seen as an ethical action because it addresses inequality and supports the fundamental
right to education.
QUESTION 1
1.1
1.1.1 Philanthropic Responsibility
Philanthropic responsibility refers to the voluntary actions taken by a business to improve the
well-being of society, beyond what is required by law or economic obligations. According to
Archie B. Carroll, philanthropy forms part of the broader Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) pyramid and includes activities such as donations, community upliftment, and support
for education. In this case, McDonald’s demonstrated philanthropic responsibility by
donating desks to schools, thereby addressing a significant social need.
The donation of desks contributes directly to improving the learning environment for learners,
particularly in under-resourced schools where infrastructure challenges persist. By providing
essential classroom furniture, McDonald’s supports better concentration, comfort, and
dignity for learners, which ultimately enhances educational outcomes. This action is not
driven by profit but by a desire to contribute positively to society, aligning with the idea that
businesses should play a role in community development (Kotler & Lee, 2023). Furthermore,
such initiatives help build strong relationships between the company and the community,
fostering goodwill and trust (Visser, 2024).
1.1.2 Ethical Responsibility
Ethical responsibility refers to the obligation of businesses to act in a manner that is fair, just,
and morally acceptable, even when such actions are not legally required. Archie B. Carroll
emphasises that ethical responsibilities go beyond compliance with the law and reflect
society’s expectations of responsible corporate behaviour. McDonald’s donation of desks can
be seen as an ethical action because it addresses inequality and supports the fundamental
right to education.
