Just Giving

Why Philanthropy Is Failing Democracy and How It Can Do Better

De: Rob Reich

Narrado por: Matthew Josdal

Is philanthropy, by its very nature, a threat to today's democracy? Though we may laud wealthy individuals who give away their money for society's benefit, Just Giving reveals how such generosity not only isn't the unassailable good we think it to be but might also undermine democratic values and set back aspirations of justice.

Big philanthropy is often an exercise of power, the conversion of private assets into public influence. And it is a form of power that is largely unaccountable, often perpetual, and lavishly tax-advantaged. The affluent - and their foundations - reap vast benefits even as they influence policy without accountability. And small philanthropy, or ordinary charitable giving, can be problematic as well. Charity, it turns out, does surprisingly little to provide for those in need and sometimes worsens inequality. These outcomes are shaped by the policies that define and structure philanthropy. When, how much, and to whom people give is influenced by laws governing everything from the creation of foundations and nonprofits to generous tax exemptions for donations of money and property. Rob Reich asks: What attitude and what policies should democracies have concerning individuals who give money away for public purposes?

©2018 Princeton University Press (P)2019 Tantor

Interesting read

I have been in the non profit/foundation world my entire life. My university study was in political science, psychology, and theology. I didn’t just listen, I read along with my copy and am thankful Prof. Reich has put his ideas to print.

thought for booking ideas but very academic

I love many of the ideas presented here but the form and language used is highly academic and formal, which unfortunately makes it not accessible too many. I hope he creates other formats to share this information and his theory in ways that are more accessible to the general public as this is an important message that needs to get out.

Great criticism of Philanthropy

Very astutely points out the shortcomings of philanthropy. Most philanthropy does not benefit the poor, as many assume. The US structure overwhelmingly rewards richer people for philanthropy, for no clear reason, resulting in the favored causes of the rich to be the beneficiaries of most money.

There’s many great arguments on the inequity inherent in the US system. But it is very dry, academic, and repetitive by the end. Great argument, just not engaging enough to say it’s overwhelmingly 5 stars.

Just Giving

I am Just giving this book away! It makes no sense. Very confusing, the writing goes in circles. This book does not hold the readers attention.