What Is Philanthropy For?

Does charitable giving still matter but need to change?

Philanthropy, the use of private assets for public good, has been much criticised in recent years. Do elite philanthropists wield too much power? Is big-money philanthropy unaccountable and therefore anti-democratic? And what about so-called "tainted donations" and "dark money" funding pseudo-philanthropic political projects? The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified many of these criticisms, leading some to conclude that philanthropy needs to be fundamentally reshaped if it is to play a positive role in our future.

Rhodri Davies, drawing on his deep knowledge of the past and present landscape of philanthropy, explains why it's important to ask what philanthropy is for because it has for centuries played a major role in shaping our world. Considering the alternatives, including charity, justice, taxation, the state, democracy and the market, he examines the pressing questions that philanthropy must tackle if it is to be equal to the challenges of the 21st century.

'An indispensable, eminently readable guide to philanthropy’s relationship to democracy, the state and social ethics, brimming with insights and alive to its complexities.' Benjamin Sosksis, The Urban Institute

'A wise and sure-footed guide to the challenges and opportunities philanthropy faces today. Should be essential reading for anyone who is associated with individual and institutional giving, for anyone who works in the fundraising world, and for anyone who has money to give away.' David Cannadine, Princeton University and Editor, Oxford Dictionary of National Biography

'Philanthropy has never been as controversial as it is now. Davies, one of the sector's most nuanced and intelligent thinkers, explores the complex history of philanthropy, deftly weaving together stories and insights to provide an engaging account of this transformational moment. Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist or interested in the history and impact of charitable giving, this book is a must-read.' Asha Curran, Giving Tuesday

'An expert on the state of philanthropy, Rhodri raises sharp questions and shares valuable insight about the relationship between justice and philanthropy. An essential read for anyone who wants to learn more about philanthropy!' Megan Francis, University of Washington

Rhodri Davies is the founding Director of the think tank Philanthropy Matters, and a Pears Research Fellow at the Centre for Philanthropy, University of Kent. He is also the host of the Philanthropisms podcast. Until September 2021 he was Head of Policy at the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), where he led Giving Thought, an in-house think tank focusing on philanthropy and civil society issues.

Does charitable giving still matter but need to change? Philanthropy, the use of private assets for public good, has been much criticised in recent years. Do elite philanthropists wield too much power? Is big-money philanthropy unaccountable and therefore anti-democratic? And what about so-called "tainted donations" and "dark money" funding pseudo-philanthropic political projects? The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified many of these criticisms, leading some to conclude that philanthropy needs to be fundamentally reshaped if it is to play a positive role in our future. Rhodri Davies, drawing on his deep knowledge of the past and present landscape of philanthropy, explains why it's important to ask what philanthropy is for because it has for centuries played a major role in shaping our world. Considering the alternatives, including charity, justice, taxation, the state, democracy and the market, he examines the pressing questions that philanthropy must tackle if it is to be equal to the challenges of the 21st century.

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