SearchThe Design and Conduct of Campaigns to make Corporations more Socially and Environmentally Responsible
Corporations occupy a very central place in our economy and our society, providing us with services and products that raise our standard of living. But some corporations also cause social, environmental, and political harm in the process of providing us with services and products. This is why many civil society advocacy organizations conduct campaigns to pressure corporations to be more socially, environmentally, and politically responsible. The unbridled pursuit of wealth means that corporate campaigns must continue to play a vital role in protecting people and the environment. This 15-week course is dedicated to helping future “inside” and “outside” social and environmental advocates understand the role of corporate accountability campaigns and how to design and conduct them in the most effective manner.
Sample Syllabus
Instructor guidance for teaching an advocacy class based on the book “Reining in the Bulls” by Michael Marx, incl. sample syllabus and 15 week course outline, topics and videos, lecture outlines, exercises, assignments, and reading.
Course Outline Includes:
- Weeks 1–3: why campaigns matter, how corporations work, how campaigns work.
- Weeks 4–7: researching and selecting a target, power mapping, and crafting a communications strategy.
- Weeks 8-10: recruiting allies and organizing shareholders and employees.
- Weeks 11–12: direct action in the field and online.
- Weeks 13–15: negotiating agreements, life as a campaigner, summary and the future.
Guest Lecturers
We’ve compiled a list of possible lecturers who would love to come and give guest lectures or online talks to classes. These are individuals who have led corporate campaigns and/or are experts in various aspects of campaigning (e.g. communications). Most are willing to provide pro-bono lectures related to this course. Download the current version of the list below.
The list changes frequently. Sign up below to receive updates when new versions become available.