EPISODE · Mar 1, 2024 · 54 MIN
E66: The Dark Side of Philanthropy - w/ Dr. Amy Schiller
from El Podcast · host jesse, amy schilller, dr amy schiller, price of humanity, El Podcast, jesse wright, El Podcast Media
Why modern philanthropy reinforces inequality—and how to fix it. Author and former fundraising consultant Dr. Amy Schiller joins the show to discuss her new book The Price of Humanity, examining how elite-driven giving has lost its moral purpose and how we might restore a more democratic, dignifying vision of philanthropy.👤 GuestDr. Amy Schiller – Author, political theorist, and former philanthropic strategist; author of The Price of Humanity: How Philanthropy Went Wrong and How to Fix It (2023).🧠 Topics DiscussedThe commodification of giving and rise of “donor ego”Tax loopholes, donor-advised funds, and LLC "charities"Effective altruism, longtermism, and the Sam Bankman-Fried sagaPhilanthropy as power vs. philanthropy as public goodReform ideas: giving wage, payout rules, and rebuilding legitimacyWhy LeBron James—not Bill Gates—is the ideal modern philanthropist💬 Top 3 Quotes“What makes something a gift is giving it without the expectation of something in return.”“Existing humans are depreciating assets—at least to effective altruists.”“Philanthropy literally means love of humanity. Let’s do it in a way that actually validates the fullest definition of humanity.” 🎙 The Pod is hosted by Jesse Wright💬 For guest suggestions, questions, or media inquiries, reach out at https://elpodcast.media/📬 Never miss an episode – subscribe and follow wherever you get your podcasts.⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show. It helps others find us. Thanks for listening!
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What this episode covers
Dr. Amy Schiller, author of 'The Price of Humanity: How Philanthropy Went Wrong and How to Fix It,' discusses the flaws and challenges within the philanthropy sector. She draws on her 15 years of experience in fundraising and consulting to critique the trends she observed, such as the shift towards a more utilitarian approach and the prioritization of donor satisfaction. Schiller also highlights the need for reform in philanthropy, including addressing tax avoidance, regulating donor-advised funds, and reevaluating the tax deductibility of donations. She emphasizes the importance of redeeming the idea of philanthropy as an activity that affirms the humanity of all and promotes justice. The conversation explores the themes of the Night of the Fire and the controversy surrounding philanthropy. It delves into the misuse of philanthropy and the issues with trusts and foundations. The role of philanthropy and its potential as an add-on to public goods is discussed. The prototype of philanthropy is examined through the example of LeBron James. The need to democratize elite institutions and the reinforcement of the status quo are explored. Solutions for philanthropy are proposed, and feedback on the book is shared. The importance of redistributing power is emphasized, and prospects for reforms in philanthropy are considered.
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E66: The Dark Side of Philanthropy - w/ Dr. Amy Schiller
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