Philanthropy and the Public Good: Historical Perspectives

This article offers a comprehensive historical perspective on the pivotal role of philanthropy in advancing the public good. It meticulously examines major trends and policy influences that have shaped charitable practices across diverse historical eras. The author delves into how philanthropic efforts have evolved in response to societal needs and governmental policies, providing a nuanced understanding of their impact on public welfare. By tracing these developments, the article illuminates the enduring significance of philanthropy in addressing collective challenges and fostering societal progress throughout history.

War and social change: British society in the Second World War

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the profound social changes experienced by British society during the Second World War. It examines how the war impacted various aspects of life, including social structures, gender roles, class relations, and public welfare. While not exclusively focused on philanthropy, the book implicitly touches upon how wartime exigencies and the collective spirit of the nation influenced charitable efforts and community support systems. It offers historical context for understanding the interplay between societal upheaval, government intervention, and philanthropic responses in times of crisis.

Social change and the labouring poor: Antwerp, 1770-1860

This article examines the responses of the laboring poor in Antwerp to socio-economic transformations between 1770 and 1860. It analyzes their various forms of collective action, including the formation of mutual aid societies and early labor activism. The study reveals how these collective efforts provided crucial social protection for the impoverished and laid foundational groundwork for modern social change philanthropy. By highlighting the historical origins of community-based support systems, the authors underscore the resilience and self-organization of working-class communities in the face of industrialization and societal shifts.

Philanthropy and Cultural Imperialism

Neill assesses Arnove's edited volume, which argues that philanthropy often perpetuates Western cultural norms through educational aid. She commends its critical global perspective but notes the need for deeper historical analysis and non-Western donor voices. The review highlights how philanthropic endeavors, particularly in education, can inadvertently reinforce existing power imbalances and cultural hegemonies. It advocates for a more inclusive and historically informed approach to global philanthropy, one that actively seeks out and values diverse perspectives from recipient communities rather than solely imposing Western ideals.

Science and philanthropy: Wickliffe rose and the International Education Board

Kohler meticulously traces Wickliffe Rose's leadership of the International Education Board, an initiative generously funded by the Rockefeller Foundation. The article demonstrates how strategic science philanthropy significantly shaped global scientific institutions and research infrastructure during the early 20th century. Kohler highlights the pivotal role of private funds in advancing academic science, underscoring how philanthropic vision and investment can catalyze groundbreaking research and establish enduring scientific frameworks. This historical account illustrates the profound and lasting impact that targeted philanthropic efforts can have on the development and internationalization of scientific endeavors.

Philanthropy and Cultural Imperialism: The Foundations at Home and Abroad

Arnove compiles critical essays on the global reach of major U.S. foundations (Carnegie, Rockefeller, Ford). Contributors argue these institutions exert significant cultural and political influence abroad through their funding priorities. They contend that this influence shapes democratic discourse and reinforces U.S. ideological frameworks, effectively acting as agents of cultural imperialism rather than purely benevolent actors, often at the expense of other nations’ interests.

Museums and ideology: Augustus Pitt-Rivers, anthropological museums, and social change in later Victorian Britain

This article explores the evolving role of museums in later Victorian Britain through the lens of Augustus Pitt-Rivers’ anthropological collections. It investigates how Pitt-Rivers’ typological approach to exhibiting objects influenced the understanding of human evolution and societal progress. The study also delves into the ideological underpinnings of anthropological museums during this period, examining their contribution to broader discourses of social change and the construction of national identity within a colonial context. It sheds light on how such institutions both reflected and shaped contemporary views on race and culture.

AN ANALYSIS OF SHIFTING INSTITUTIONAL PHILOSOPHY WITHIN THE WORLD OF PRIVATE PHILANTHROPY-IMPLICATIONS FOR LIFELONG LEARNING

The one hundred largest private foundations significantly fund lifelong learning, though often categorizing it under "human services" or "community service" rather than "education" in annual reports. Awareness of lifelong learning as a vital concept is growing. The report suggests that increasing the engagement of educators as consultants could accelerate this awareness, highlighting the broad scope of foundation activities beyond direct formal education support and their potential to significantly contribute to continuous learning initiatives.

American Literature and Social Change: William Dean Howells to Arthur Miller

This book delves into the complexities of understanding and managing public organizations, exploring their unique characteristics, challenges, and operational dynamics. It examines various theoretical perspectives and practical approaches to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of public sector entities. The text covers topics such as public policy implementation, bureaucratic behavior, organizational structure, and leadership within the governmental context. It provides insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to improve governance and public service delivery in diverse settings, emphasizing the distinct environment in which these organizations operate.
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