In the fourth lecture of the series hosted at the British Library in association with the Academy of Social Sciences, Dr Beth Breeze, Director of the Centre for Philanthropy, will discuss philanthropy.
‘Philanthropy’, or more literally, ‘love of humankind’, should be an uncontroversial activity, especially as the voluntary redistribution of resources has been a feature of every society throughout time. But it rouses passionate debate among both advocates and detractors. For some philanthropists are paternalistic, even elitist but for others the benefits of giving outweigh negative perceptions. Is philanthropy undermining the contemporary welfare state consensus? Dr. Breeze will discuss the role of philanthropy in contemporary society, explore why it is seen as a problem, and suggest how we might find some common ground between its critics and champions.
Enduring Ideas is a series of public discussions exploring some of the key concepts and ideas that underpin society.
Beth will be teaching on the new MA Philanthropic Studies which launches in September, the first of its kind in Europe and delivered by distance learning to suit the needs of people working and living around the country. Visit http://ow.ly/YfNKP for more information.