Book Review: Giving: Charity and Philanthropy in History

This is a book review of Robert Bremner’s "Giving: Charity and Philanthropy in History." The review highlights Bremner’s comprehensive historical account of charity and philanthropy, tracing its evolution from ancient mythology to the twentieth century. It praises the book’s rich detail and engaging storytelling, which explores how giving has been understood and practiced across different cultures, examining key figures, social policies, and the impact of philanthropy on fields like education and the arts.

External philanthropy and domestic change in Colombian health care: The role of the Rockefeller foundation, ca. 1920–1950

This article examines the significant role of the Rockefeller Foundation in shaping Colombian healthcare between 1920 and 1950, focusing on the interplay between external philanthropy and domestic change. It analyzes how the Foundation’s interventions influenced public health policies, medical education, and disease control efforts in Colombia. The study highlights the complex dynamics of foreign aid and its long-term effects on local health systems, demonstrating how philanthropic initiatives can drive substantial, albeit sometimes controversial, transformations in developing nations.

Philanthropy and public enterprise: International exhibitions and the modern town planning movement, 1889–1913

Meller investigates how philanthropic patronage of international expositions influenced the nascent modern town planning movement. He demonstrates that these exhibitions promoted city design ideals globally, intertwining civic philanthropy with architectural modernization and public enterprise. The article highlights the significant role of private giving in shaping urban development and fostering international collaboration on urban design principles during this formative period.

Nursing and social change

This foundational work meticulously examines the historical evolution of nursing as a distinct profession and critically analyzes its dynamic role in broader societal transformations. It particularly focuses on the profound impact of nursing within the context of healthcare systems and their intricate social structures. The book traces how nursing practices have adapted to and influenced changes in public health, medical technology, and social policy, underscoring its continuous professional development alongside evolving societal needs and challenges.

The Student Service and Philanthropy Project.

This article describes and evaluates "The Student Service and Philanthropy Project," a three-year demonstration program established by the Surdna Foundation in cooperation with New York City Public Schools. The project aimed to empower high school students by giving them the opportunity to govern and administer mini-foundations committed to public service. The program sought to demonstrate that when given such responsibilities, students could realize their potential as agents for positive social change. The article assesses the program’s success in fostering citizenship education, leadership training, and student participation in community services.

The Millionaire Givers: Wealth and Philanthropy in Britain

This paper explores the intersection of wealth and philanthropy in Britain, focusing on the behavior of wealthy individuals and their motivations behind charitable giving. It delves into the dynamics of millionaire philanthropists and how their contributions shape social change. The report discusses the influence of financial resources on philanthropic practices, the impact of tax incentives, and the emerging trends in high-net-worth individuals’ philanthropic activities in Britain.

Left and right in American philanthropy

This article examines the ideological spectrum within American philanthropy, exploring the distinctions and overlaps between "left" and "right" leaning philanthropic approaches. It likely analyzes how different political philosophies influence funding priorities, organizational structures, and the overall strategies employed by charitable foundations and individual donors. The content may delve into historical trends, prominent examples of philanthropic initiatives from both sides of the political divide, and the societal impact of these divergent approaches. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between ideology and charitable giving in the United States.

Giving: Charity and philanthropy in history

Robert Bremner’s "Giving" offers a comprehensive history of charity and philanthropy, tracing attitudes from ancient mythology to the twentieth century. With rich detail and engaging storytelling, it explores how giving evolved across cultures, highlighting key figures, social policies, and the impact of philanthropy on education and the arts.

Changing institutional rules: The evolution of corporate philanthropy, 1883-1953

This academic article provides an early critique of strategic philanthropy, exploring how foundations and donors attempt to apply business principles to social giving. It discusses the tensions between long-term strategic planning and the unpredictable, emergent nature of social change. The author warns against overly technocratic approaches and calls for balance between measurement-driven giving and responsiveness to community needs. The paper laid groundwork for future debates on philanthropic effectiveness.
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