Philanthropy in Brazil and the UK: Wealth, responsibility and the pursuit of social change by economic elites

Sklair Correa ethnographically examines how elites in Brazil and the UK use philanthropy to shape social change. The study shows strategic giving reflects global capitalist ideologies while serving as identity and inheritance management. Despite local differences, elite philanthropy in both contexts converges on market-based, strategic models with limited systemic redistribution impact. The research highlights how philanthropic practices by the wealthy are often intertwined with personal and economic objectives, rather than solely altruistic aims. It raises critical questions about the true transformative potential of elite philanthropy in addressing deep-seated societal inequalities.