Philanthropy and Cultural Imperialism

Neill assesses Arnove's edited volume, which argues that philanthropy often perpetuates Western cultural norms through educational aid. She commends its critical global perspective but notes the need for deeper historical analysis and non-Western donor voices. The review highlights how philanthropic endeavors, particularly in education, can inadvertently reinforce existing power imbalances and cultural hegemonies. It advocates for a more inclusive and historically informed approach to global philanthropy, one that actively seeks out and values diverse perspectives from recipient communities rather than solely imposing Western ideals.