ABSTRACT
The Copstock and other foundations of the past served designated classes in particular locations; modern philanthropy has created general-purpose foundations whose function is to encourage research, discovery of causes and cures, and prevention of ills rather than relief of need, and that operate on a nationwide or worldwide basis. In spite of lofty objectives –for example, "improvement in living and social conditions in the United States," "advancement and diffusion of knowledge and understanding," and promotion of "the wellbeing of mankind throughout the world" –and indisputable contributions to science, education, social welfare, the arts, and culture, foundations have not been well treated by writers. Philanthropy and art patronage occasionally figure in mystery novels because money and valuable works of art are frequently involved in crime and murder. David Williams's Treasure in Oxford uses a conversation between a husband-and-wife team of amateur detectives to weigh motives and result in architectural patronage.
