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philanthropy

fih-LAN-thruh-pee /fɪˈlænθrəpi/

nounC1GREGMATIELTS

Formal

The desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed by the generous donation of money to good causes.

Usually refers to large-scale, organized giving by wealthy individuals or foundations.

The story behind the word. From 'philos' (loving) and 'anthropos' (human). The word first appeared in the play 'Prometheus Bound' by Aeschylus to describe Prometheus's 'philanthropos tropos' (human-loving way) in giving fire to humans to help them survive.

Word relationships

charity: Charity is often immediate relief (food, clothes); philanthropy is often long-term, strategic giving to solve root problems.

misanthropy: Misanthropy is a hatred or distrust of humankind, the exact opposite of philanthropy.

Commonly confused with

altruism: Altruism is the feeling/spirit; philanthropy is the organized action/donation.

Word family

philanthropist (noun): A person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money.
philanthropic (adjective): Seeking to promote the welfare of others.

Collocations

corporate philanthropy
charitable philanthropy
act of philanthropy
venture philanthropy

Example sentences

"Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary." A famous quote on social responsibility.
"The billionaire’s philanthropy funded the construction of three new hospitals in the region." Modern charitable foundations.

Memory hook

Phil (love) + Anthro (man) = Love of mankind. Loving humanity through giving.

When not to use

Don't use for small, personal acts of kindness (use 'altruism' or 'generosity' instead).

Fun facts

The 'Gospel of Wealth' by Andrew Carnegie is considered the founding document of modern American philanthropy.