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Philanthropy is the act of donating money, goods, time, or effort to support a charitable cause, usually over an extended period of time and in regard to a defined objective. 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. Conventional Usage By the conventional definition of philanthropy, donations are dedicated to a narrowly defined cause and the donation is targeted to make a recognizable change in social conditions. This often necessitates large donations and financial support sustained over time. The need for a large financial commitment creates a distinction between philanthropy and charitable giving, which typically plays a supporting role in a charitable organization initiated by someone else. Thus, the conventional usage of philanthropy applies mainly to wealthy persons, and sometimes to a trust created by a wealthy person with a particular cause or objective targeted. Many non-wealthy persons have dedicated – thus, donated – substantial portions of their time, effort and wealth to charitable causes. These people are not typically described as philanthropists because individual effort alone is seldom recognized as instigating significant change. These people are thought of as charitable workers but some people wish to recognize these people as philanthropists in honor of their efforts. Technical definitions Robert L. Payton expanded the conventional defintion of philanthropy in his 1988 book "Philanthropy: Voluntary Action For the Public Good." The text of this book and many of his writings are available at PaytonPapers. See also Lists | ||||||||
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