The problem of strategic philanthropy

This article critiques strategic philanthropy, particularly its psychological limitations for individual donors. It argues that most individual giving is not strategic, often driven by personal relationships, local community ties, or impulse rather than abstract outcomes. Citing research, the author notes donors’ reluctance to research organizational effectiveness, suggesting that the "warm glow" of giving often suffices. While acknowledging that staffed foundations may be more promising targets for strategic approaches, the piece suggests that even they can underperform. It questions the feasibility of persuading individual donors to adopt a strategic mindset given inherent human psychological tendencies toward immediate gratification and personal connections.