Philanthropy

Philanthropy is the voluntary act of donating money or goods or providing some other support to a charitable cause, usually over an extended period of time. In a more fundamental sense, philanthropy may encompass any altruistic activity which is intended to promote good or improve human quality of life. Someone who is well known for practicing philanthropy may sometimes be called a philanthropist. Although such individuals are often very wealthy, people may nevertheless perform philanthropic acts without possessing great wealth.

Philanthropy is a major source of income for artistic, musical, religious, and humanitarian causes, as well as educational institutions ranging from schools to universities (see patronage).

Philosophical views on philanthropy

Philanthropy is not always viewed as a universal good. Notable thinkers such as Friedrich Nietzsche and Ayn Rand opposed philanthropy on philosophical grounds, connecting it with the idea of the weak sponging off the strong, a view sometimes endorsed by those who oppose government welfare programs.

The purpose of philanthropy is also debated. Some equate philanthropy with benevolence and charity for the poor and needy. Others hold that philanthropy can be any altruistic giving towards any kind of social need that is not served by the market.

Some believe that philanthropy can be a means to build community by growing community funds and giving vehicles. When communities see themselves as being resource rich instead of asset poor, the community is in a better place to solve community problems.

Political views on philanthropy

Philanthropy is a private sector means of effecting social change without recourse to government mechanisms such as those represented by aid programs.

Governments are often supportive of philanthropic efforts. In many countries, those who donate money to a charity are given a tax break. Some governments are suspicious of philanthropic activities as possible grabs for favor (and votes/power in democracies) of portions of the population by non-governmental organizations.

Social activism and philanthropy

Social activists frequently criticize philanthrophic contributions by corporations whom activists consider "suspect". An example is the Harvard, Exxon, and South Africa case. Harvard University divested itself of Exxon stock after pressure and accusations that Exxon's doing business in South Africa contributed to apartheid. But when asked if they still wanted to receive philanthropic contributions from Exxon, Harvard said "yes". Some considered this morally inconsistent, others would consider it a warranted penance. If Harvard remained a stockholder, it could have voted to stop operations in the country. Instead, it sold the stock in protest. Exxon did in fact stop doing business in South Africa, as did other companies like Xerox, thereby costing employees their jobs and South Africa several contributors to a healthy economy. On the other hand, the international embargo against South Africa finally forced the white minority to grant political and human rights to its black and coloured citizens.

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