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The Self‐Help Myth: Towards a Theory of Philanthropy as Consensus Broker

1 January 1970
Academic / Journal Article
Publisher : Wiley

19681

This article proposes a theory of philanthropy as a "consensus broker," challenging the "self-help myth." It examines how philanthropic power is maintained through negotiating consensus between funders and social movement leaders, often obscuring structural inequalities. Drawing on research in California’s Central Valley, the article argues that grant agreements can construct idealized public participation, diverting attention from systemic issues and ultimately generating consent rather than true transformative change in addressing poverty.

Author(s) :

E Kohl‐Arenas

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Key topics

Social Justice, Philanthropy and Human Rights

Also found in

Ethical Governance, Accountability, and Compliance Systems Thinking and Complex Problem Design

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