Mapping the Intellectual Landscape of <scp>ESG</scp> : A Bibliometric and Thematic Approach

ABSTRACT This study presents an integrated bibliometric and thematic mapping of the environmental, social, and governance (ESG)‐corporate social responsibility (CSR)‐financial performance literature by employing both quantitative and qualitative methods. It comprehensively reviews the existing literature by analyzing 322 articles extracted from the Web of Science database, spanning over 100 journals and the past 15 years, and performing statistical, scientometric, and thematic analyses. Unlike prior reviews, we combined VOSviewer‐based scientometric with a manual content analysis of the top 50 papers published in AJG‐ranked journals over the past 5 years to (1) identify intellectual clusters and their evolution, (2) surface methodological choices that drive contradictory results, and (3) develop prioritized, actionable research questions and policy recommendations for academicians, researchers, investors, and regulators. Key findings suggest a noticeable traction since 2015, indicated by a steady rise in the number of publications and citations since then. The top two most productive journals are CSR and Environmental Management and Business Strategy and the Environment (with 45 and 32 papers, respectively). The United States is the most productive country, and Shunsuke Managi is the most influential author. Additionally, content analysis reveals that financial performance and governance are the most prominent themes, while ESG investing and controversies are emerging areas of interest. This study also documents geographic and methodological imbalances that limit generalizability. The contribution of our study is threefold: an updated scientometric map, an in‐depth AJG‐based thematic synthesis, and a stakeholder‐oriented agenda that bridges descriptive mapping and practical guidance.