People Power Strategies to Curtail Corporate Power: Serving the Public Good

How can corporate power be effectively challenged when states struggle to regulate corporations, and companies wield stronger incentives and threats than citizens can exert on governments? Historically, industrial actions and labor movements have been the most effective forces against corporate dominance—but are they the only ones? What roles can other stakeholders beyond trade unions play? This book argues that curbing corporate power, preventing its abuses, and strengthening democracy require strategic people power. By collectively withdrawing cooperation and consent, civil society can disrupt and erode the pillars that sustain corporate influence. Drawing on nonviolent action theory and social movement research, this book expands the conversation on corporate social responsibility and corporate accountability. It explores how the strategic logic behind the civil rights movement, democracy campaigns, and anti-colonial struggles can guide modern efforts to hold multinational corporations accountable. This work is essential reading for scholars in corporate social responsibility, labor studies, sustainability, organizational studies, and collective action. It also offers valuable insights for activists, practitioners of nonviolent resistance, and anyone committed to corporate accountability and social justice.