Towards a critical social theory of philanthropy in an era of governance

This article aims to develop a critical social theory of philanthropy, particularly within the contemporary context of governance. It challenges conventional understandings of philanthropy by examining its role within broader power structures and its relationship with state and market mechanisms. The piece likely analyzes how philanthropic activities can either reinforce or challenge existing social inequalities and political agendas. It encourages a deeper, more critical examination of the motivations, mechanisms, and impacts of philanthropic endeavors, contributing to a more nuanced theoretical framework for understanding the evolving landscape of charitable giving in a governed society.

The reception of refugee scholars from Nazi Germany in America: philanthropy and social change in higher education

This article examines the reception of refugee scholars from Nazi Germany in American higher education during the 1930s. Despite initial defensiveness from American educators and existing antisemitic prejudice, a significant number of these scholars successfully integrated into U.S. colleges and universities. The paper attributes this success not only to the talents of the refugees but also to the crucial role of American philanthropy, particularly the contributions of the Rockefeller Foundation and the Emergency Committee in Aid of Displaced Foreign Scholars. It explores how these philanthropic efforts, coupled with changing perceptions within the American academic community.

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.

The Gates-Buffett merger isn't good for philanthropy

This article argues against the perceived benefits of the merger between the Gates Foundation and Warren Buffett’s philanthropic efforts. The author contends that such large concentrations of wealth and power in philanthropy can lead to an undue influence on public policy and potentially stifle diverse approaches to social problems. It raises concerns about accountability and the democratic implications of mega-philanthropy, advocating for a more distributed and accountable model of charitable giving.

Strengthening Health and Developmental Outcomes in Children

This article outlines the vital role of local grantmaking organizations in integrating child and family services to improve developmental outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of scalable and replicable interventions and highlights the unique position of foundations in promoting systemic change at local and regional levels. The discussion focuses on how strategic grantmaking can foster collaborative efforts among various stakeholders to enhance child health and development through comprehensive and coordinated service delivery models.

Strategic Giving The Art and Science of Philanthropy

Peter Frumkin offers a comprehensive framework for donors to approach giving strategically. He outlines five key dimensions—vehicle, impact, engagement, timeframe, and purpose—and argues that effective philanthropy must balance private beliefs with public needs to maintain legitimacy and drive systemic change. The book provides a practical guide for donors seeking to maximize their philanthropic influence, emphasizing thoughtful planning and execution to achieve meaningful and sustainable social impact, while navigating the complexities of charitable giving.

State of Philanthropy 2006: A New Foundations Debate

This report captures crucial debates within the philanthropic sector concerning the legitimacy, transparency, and accountability of foundations. It explores inherent tensions between public interest mandates and the private power wielded by foundations, sparking significant discourse on the evolving responsibilities and roles of institutional philanthropy. The document examines how foundations balance their charitable missions with public expectations, contributing to an ongoing conversation about governance and oversight in the philanthropic world.

Social entrepreneurship: Innovation and social change across theory and practice

This chapter reviews theoretical and practical literature on social entrepreneurship, conceptualizing entrepreneurial processes—opportunity recognition, resource mobilization, and innovation management—as crucial for systemic social change. It proposes a model to guide impact evaluation and organizational design in entrepreneurial ventures. The authors advocate for stronger research-praxis linkages and improved alignment between theoretical frameworks and implementation to maximize the effectiveness of social entrepreneurial initiatives.

Market based solutions for financing philanthropy

The Marguerite Casey Foundation focuses on empowering low-income families by strengthening their voices and mobilizing communities to achieve social and economic justice. Grounded in the belief that those most affected by poverty are best suited to determine solutions, the Foundation employs a movement-building strategy. This involves supporting advocacy efforts through general operating support, building cross-sector networks, and investing in family-led initiatives. Their approach emphasizes listening to and resourcing communities, aiming to amplify impact across various interconnected issues faced by low-income families.

Live case studies in organizational change: Learning about change through student philanthropy and service learning

This book critically examines the Gates Foundation and its philanthropic practices, challenging the notion of "free gifts." It delves into the potential downsides and unintended consequences of large-scale philanthropy, questioning its impact on power dynamics, accountability, and the broader social and economic landscape. The author explores how philanthropic endeavors, even with good intentions, can sometimes perpetuate existing inequalities or serve other interests, urging a more nuanced understanding of the true cost and implications of such giving.
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