Philanthropy: From Aristotle to Zuckerberg

Paul Vallely's "Philanthropy: A History of Giving" explores the history, contradictions, and future of philanthropy, revealing how the super-rich are shaping our world. The book offers an original take on the history of philanthropy, from the ancient Greeks to the modern era, and explores how giving has been a matter of honor, altruism, religious injunction, political control, moral activism, enlightened self-interest, public good, personal fulfillment, and plutocratic manipulation. It critiques the excessive utilitarianism of much modern philanthrocapitalism and points to how philanthropy can rediscover its soul.

Format: Hardback
Length: 768 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This is the ultimate guide to philanthropy, encompassing its rich history, complexities, and potential future. Written by John Gray, an esteemed Emeritus Professor of European Thought at the London School of Economics, this book delves into the multifaceted world of charitable giving. It serves as a comprehensive exploration, shedding light on the historical roots, evolving trends, and profound impact of philanthropy on society.

In his insightful narrative, Gray traces the evolution of philanthropy from its ancient Greek origins to the present day. He highlights how it has evolved from a matter of honor and altruism to a complex interplay of motives, including political control, moral activism, and enlightened self-interest. The book offers a captivating journey through different eras, from the Greek man of honor and Roman patron to the Elizabethan machiavel, Puritan proto-capitalist, Enlightenment activist, and Victorian moralist. It uncovers the diverse ways in which philanthropy has been expressed, from acts of charity to strategic investments in social and economic development.

One of the key themes of the book is the loss of an essential element of philanthropy as it entered the modern era. Gray argues that while philanthropy has continued to play a vital role in addressing social and humanitarian challenges, it has often lost sight of its original mission. He explores the challenges faced by contemporary philanthropists in recapturing the essence of true philanthropy, which goes beyond mere financial contributions and seeks to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

To address these challenges, the book embarks on a thoughtful exploration of different philanthropic approaches. It examines the successes and failures of philanthrocapitalism, a model that combines business principles with charitable giving. It questions the claims and contradictions of this approach, highlighting its potential for creating sustainable social change. The book also engages with top philanthropists and leading thinkers, seeking their insights and perspectives on philanthropy's future.

Among the notable figures interviewed in the book are Richard Branson, Eliza Manningham-Buller, Jonathan Ruffer, David Sainsbury, John Studzinski, Bob Geldof, and Naser Haghamed. Their experiences, anecdotes, and perspectives provide valuable insights into the world of philanthropy and its potential for driving positive change.

In conclusion, Philanthropy is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers a comprehensive exploration of the history, complexities, and potential future of philanthropy. Written by a renowned expert in the field, it provides valuable insights for philanthropists, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the role of charitable giving in shaping our world. By examining the successes and failures of different philanthropic approaches, the book encourages readers to reflect on the true essence of philanthropy and its potential to create a more equitable and compassionate society.

Weight: 1158g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 65 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472920126