The Power of Giving: Investigating the Shape of Private Philanthropy, a California Case Study

This paper examines the relationship between private philanthropy and social movements, particularly how large philanthropic initiatives may reorganize and depoliticize the work of groups addressing social inequities. Drawing on post-Marxist Gramscian theory, governmentality studies, and feminist materialism, it outlines a theoretical framework for investigating philanthropic influence. The study suggests that foundations might manage grantees through frameworks that emphasize individual self-help, potentially overlooking systemic power structures. It uses California’s Central Valley as a lens to explore how philanthropy impacts groups initially formed to address issues like unfair labor practices, highlighting the broader implications for political, by global capital alliances.