ABSTRACT
This chapter elaborates on democracy and philanthropy based on a variety of historical and institutional experiences rather than exclusively on the American one. We begin by highlighting a structural tension. Philanthropy is not only an act of generosity but also an act of power. Philanthropy is political, but where does its legitimacy come from (empirical question) / can it come from (normative question)? This structural tension is more acute and visible in a new gilded age of philanthropy. As (wealth) inequality is on the rise, philanthropy is on the rise, so the sector has to ask questions about the origins and destination of the money it distributes. These dynastic patterns (re)emerge in our democratic societies. However, this twofold global tension is often interpreted as the exclusive prism of American philanthropy. In this chapter, we pay close attention to the varieties of philanthropic models in relation to the varieties of welfare capitalism. We also pay close attention to the many relations through which philanthropy and the state interact. We finally lay down ideas for democratizing philanthropy.
