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In this very much feature length (!) episode we explore the philosophy of philanthropy. We take a look at some of the key philosophical questions about giving that have been tackled by great thinkers through the ages,  and ask how they can inform our thinking about philanthropy today. Including:

-Is altruism or egoism the basis of human nature? 

-What is the nature of property? 

-Why should we give? 

-Is giving a choice or a duty? 

-How does charity relate to justice? 

-What should we give to? 

-How should we give? 

-Are perpetual endowments justifiable? 

-What is the role of philanthropy in a democracy? 

-Why has Effective Altruism become so influential, and should we be concerned? 

-Do we need to wider philosophical perspectives on philanthropy? 

Related Links

• My Suggested Reading list on the philosophy of philanthropy
• CAF Giving Thought podcast on Effective Altruism
• CAF Giving Thought podcast interview with Rob Reich
• Recent Aeon article “Why Longtermism is the World’s Most Dangerous Secular Credo”
• Amia Srinivasan’s 2015 London Review of Books article “Stop the Robot Apocalypse”