How popular companies like Apple and Trader Joe’s project a hip, progressive image—and whether we should believe them
Consumers are told that when they put on an American Apparel t-shirt, leggings, jeans, gold bra, or other item, they look hot. Not only do they look good, but they can also feel good because they are helping US workers earn a decent wage (never mind that some of those female workers have accused their...

"Our society is at a crossroads. It is no longer enough to have the best product or the most value add for your customers. Today consumers are considering more than just product quality and price. They are looking at how your company aligns with their values, how tapped into the social climate you are, and how authentic your social stances appear. To increase revenue and seize the competitive edge, your organization needs to embrace social causes...

"The first edition of A Better World, Inc. showed how companies can profit by solving global problems. Increasingly, companies and investors are capitalizing on these opportunities. The three factors necessary for success were revealed to be effective corporate governance, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration. Racial equity and justice, and gender equity, were also themes in the original edition. By drawing on new research and case studies, this...

Investors and regulators are increasingly pushing for greater diversity on boards, but many companies' efforts to do so, known as board refreshment, are falling flat. Vague terms, loose requirements, and CEO influence work against change and favor the status quo. Meaningful refreshment requires organizations to articulate specific intentions and guard against too much CEO input.