Social Paralysis and Social Change

Smelser’s seminal work analyzes the dynamics of inertia and transformation in modern societies, focusing on Western Europe. He develops a framework to understand how institutional rigidities and cultural norms either facilitate or impede social change. This scholarly exploration integrates sociology, economics, and history to offer a nuanced theory of how social structures evolve or resist evolution. The book is a comprehensive history of mass education in 19th-century Britain, examining how class, religious, and economic conflicts influenced its development.

Knowledge for What? The Place of Private Philanthropy in American History

This article examines the historical role of private philanthropy in American history, particularly in the context of social welfare and reform. It analyzes how private philanthropic organizations operated before and alongside governmental intervention, especially prior to the expansion of federal programs during the New Deal era. The piece explores the evolving relationship between private charitable efforts and public welfare policies, discussing the enduring debate about the appropriate scope and influence of private philanthropy in addressing societal needs and shaping social change.

Donna T. Andrew Philanthropy and Police. London Charity in the Eighteenth Century. Princeton University Press, Princeton1989. x, 299 pp. $32.50.

In Philanthropy and Police, Donna T. Andrew examines the expansion of voluntary charitable organizations in 18th-century London. She challenges the notion that these initiatives were solely humanitarian, suggesting instead that they were influenced by political motives. Andrew argues that these organizations not only aimed to alleviate poverty but also sought to reinforce social order and control. By analyzing various case studies, the book provides a nuanced understanding of the interplay between philanthropy and governance during this period. It offers valuable insights into the social and political dynamics of early modern London.

Women and philanthropy: New voices, new visions

This article discusses the emerging role of women in philanthropy, emphasizing "new voices and new visions" they bring to the field. It highlights a shift in philanthropic practices as more women become significant donors and leaders, influencing how charitable resources are allocated and managed. The author explores how women’s unique experiences and perspectives often lead to a greater focus on social justice, community-based initiatives, and collaborative approaches to problem-solving. The piece advocates for recognizing and empowering these new voices to foster a more inclusive and effective philanthropic sector, responsive to diverse societal needs and promoting innovative approaches to social change.

Urban private business and social change

This book chapter, published within a broader collection, delves into the role of urban private businesses in driving or influencing social change. It examines how corporate activities, investments, and practices within urban settings contribute to societal transformations, for better or worse. The piece likely analyzes the historical context of business engagement in urban development, its impact on communities, and the potential for private sector initiatives to foster positive social change.

Social change philanthropy in America

This book traces the evolution of social change philanthropy in the U.S., from early settlement movements to modern activist foundations. It examines strategic grantmaking, community organizing, and public policy influence, demonstrating how funders increasingly focused on social justice goals in late 20th-century America. The work highlights the intertwined history of philanthropy and the state, noting instances where private philanthropy’s limitations necessitated government intervention in addressing critical social issues.

The Case Against Self-Serving Philanthropy

This critical piece argues that some forms of philanthropy are more aligned with self-promotion and tax benefits than with addressing systemic injustice. It urges a reevaluation of philanthropic motives and frameworks to better serve the public good. The author contends that true philanthropy should prioritize societal needs over individual recognition or financial gain. This article challenges donors and organizations to critically examine their practices, advocating for a shift towards more impactful and ethically grounded giving that genuinely contributes to social change and equity rather than perpetuating existing power structures.

Part I Understanding Education Philanthropy

Chapter 1 establishes a foundational framework for analyzing education-focused philanthropy, reviewing its historical evolution and motivations. The authors examine grant strategies, stakeholder roles, and accountability mechanisms, setting the stage for a systemic analysis of philanthropy's impact on educational reform and equity. It delves into the relationship between philanthropy, knowledge, and practice, drawing insights from empirical work and broader literature to understand philanthropy’s ambitions for knowledge and its contemporary understanding.

Lady bountiful: Women of the landed classes and rural philanthropy

This article examines the role of "Lady Bountifuls"—women from landed classes—in rural philanthropy. It explores their charitable activities and influence within their communities, shedding light on the nature of philanthropy during a specific historical period and its connection to social class and gender roles. The piece likely analyzes the motivations, methods, and impact of these women’s philanthropic endeavors on rural populations, contributing to an understanding of historical social support systems.

Corporate philanthropy in the United Kingdom

This article provides an overview of corporate philanthropy practices in the United Kingdom during the late 1980s. It likely describes the historical context, prevalent forms of corporate giving, and the motivations driving companies to engage in charitable activities at that time. The study offers insights into the early development and characteristics of corporate philanthropy within the UK.
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