LifeInBitesAndBytes

Implicit vs Explicit CSR: Are You Silent or Shouting About It?

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) sounds fancy, like something only big companies do. But CSR is not just about businesses, it extends to how we as individuals give back to our communities. The real question is, do we do it quietly or make a big show out of it? This brings us to the two types of CSR: Implicit and Explicit.

Let us dive into these two categories, explore how they play out in Sri Lanka, and stir up some thoughts on whether we are silent givers or the loud, look-at-me type. There will be some humor along the way, because self-reflection can be fun, right?

Explicit CSR: “Look At Me, I am Helping!”

First, let us talk about Explicit CSR. This is the kind of charitable work that is all about making it public. Think of those local politicians in Sri Lanka who distribute goods; rice packets, school supplies, medicine, etc., and then immediately post about it on social media. Selfies, hashtags, maybe even a quick video of them graciously handing over the goods to a teary-eyed recipient. The whole world must know they are doing good. In the world of Explicit CSR, giving is considered voluntary. It is not a duty, but something they choose to do, and by “they,” I mean they want everyone to know they chose to do it! This is common not just in Sri Lanka but in places like the USA, where corporate donations, celebrity philanthropy, and charitable acts often come with a press release and a lot of fanfare.

Here is the catch: while the act itself is often beneficial, the focus shifts toward recognition. Are they doing it because they care, or because they want everyone to see that they care?

Implicit CSR: Silent, But It is A Duty

Now, let us move on to Implicit CSR. This is the quiet, unspoken responsibility that many people in European countries embody. Over there, they do not shout about their good deeds because they believe it is just part of being a member of society. You help because you must, not because you want applause. Implicit CSR is all about responsibility. In contrast to Explicit CSR, where giving is seen as voluntary, here, it is considered a duty. You are part of society, and by being part of it, you owe it to the community to give back. No hashtags, no selfies, no grand announcements, just genuine, meaningful actions.

In Sri Lanka, we see this too, although it is more subtle. There are many who quietly support their communities, funding scholarships, donating to temples/churches/mosques/kovils, or helping out in times of crisis, without ever feeling the need to share it with the world. These people see it as their responsibility, something they must do to contribute to the society they live in. They do not need the validation of others.

Birthday CSR: Show or Sincere?

Let us throw another scenario into the mix, birthdays. Have you ever seen people doing some grand charity act on their birthday and then splashing it all over social media? “I donated to a children’s home today,” or “I visited an elderly care center on my birthday!” It is great that they are helping, but does everyone really need to know about it?

Is the act of charity really for the benefit of the community, or is it just to show the world, “Hey, look how wonderful I am! I celebrated my special day by helping others!” Do we really need that extra validation, or can we just do good because it is, well, the right thing to do?

USA vs. Europe: A CSR Mentality Divide

Globally, these two approaches are easy to spot. In the USA, Explicit CSR dominates. Companies, celebrities, and even individuals like to make a show of their charity work. It is all voluntary, and the more people who know about it, the better. Think of big donation drives, high-profile events, and extensive media coverage. Meanwhile, in Europe, Implicit CSR is far more common. People do not shout about their charitable acts because they see it as a societal duty. It is not about looking good; it is about doing what is right as a responsible member of the community. No fuss, no frills—just meaningful action.

Sri Lankan Context: Where Do You Stand?

Here in Sri Lanka, we have a bit of both. On one hand, there is the Explicit CSR crowd. Politicians, influencers, and even some regular folks love to make a big deal out of their charitable work. Every good deed is documented, shared, and liked on social media. The act becomes less about giving and more about being seen as giving. Then, there is the Implicit CSR group, the silent do-gooders. These people contribute to their communities without needing applause. They do not post about it, and they certainly do not do it for recognition. They simply see it as their responsibility.

So, here is my question for you: when you do something good, whether it is a birthday donation or helping out during a crisis, do you do it to truly help, or do you do it to be seen helping? Are you in the Explicit CSR camp, shouting about your good deeds, or are you quietly making a difference in the Implicit CSR way? It is worth thinking about. Sometimes we need to pause and ask ourselves, “Why am I really doing this?” If the answer involves social media likes or public praise, maybe it is time to rethink our motives.

Final Thoughts: Silent or Loud?

At the end of the day, it does not matter whether you are into Implicit or Explicit CSR as long as you are making a positive impact. But perhaps the quiet helpers, the ones who see helping as a duty, not a choice, might just be making the world a little bit better, without the need for recognition. So, next time you do something kind or charitable, ask yourself, do I really need to announce it to the world? Or can I just let my actions speak for themselves? After all, some of the most meaningful acts of kindness are the ones no one ever hears about.