Philanthropy: Multidisciplinary Perspectives

Abstract

Philanthropy Multidisciplinary Perspectives is a reference for academics and professionals engaged in philanthropy. It brings together scholars from fields such as economics, finance, law, philosophy, and sociology, showcasing the power of a multidisciplinary approach in providing a comprehensive view of this complex subject. The book addresses foundational questions in philanthropy and is divided into four parts. The first part asks the crucial question of why philanthropy matters, exploring the motivations behind giving and how beneficiaries are selected. The second part looks at the interaction between business and philanthropy. It examines the rise of social enterprises, the shift toward purpose-driven businesses, and the evolution of corporate social responsibility into sustainable enterprises. This part also addresses tax considerations that impact philanthropy's ability to scale. The book explores the synergies between finance and philanthropy to foster sustainable development and how philanthropy is addressing or could address specific SDGs. It concludes with key ingredients for good governance in philanthropy. The book tackles major challenges, such as diversity, compensation, and data management, while tracing the evolution of best practices in foundation governance. It identifies areas for improvement and discusses the relationships between governance in philanthropic organizations and important issues such as trust, equality, and democracy.