Socially responsible behaviour varies across countries, but the reasons for the variations are not well understood. Drawing on a blend of institutional and social origins theory, Niklas V. Kreander's reseach contributes to the understanding of why socially responsible investment differs through a comparative analysis of ethical investment practices of charities in Norway and the UK. Using a cross-sectional field study design several significant differences are found including the rationale behind an ethical policy, ethical criteria employed and the expected impact on financial performance.