The Evolution of Giving Traditions: Historical, Cultural, and Political Dimensions of Philanthropy
Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Article | NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies
Year: 2025
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-philintrantrninnov-02
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About the Article
Philanthropy is not a universal or static concept but a historically and culturally situated practice shaped by religion, politics, and power. This article traces the evolution of giving traditions from early religious charity through aristocratic patronage, modern foundations, and grassroots mutual aid. It examines how philanthropy has served as both an expression of moral obligation and a mechanism of influence, reflecting broader transformations in governance and social relations. The analysis highlights colonial and post-colonial dynamics, showing how Western institutional philanthropy often intertwined with cultural assimilation, while indigenous and community-based practices sustained reciprocity and solidarity. By comparing global traditions—from Christian, Islamic, and Jewish giving to African and Asian mutual aid systems—the article reveals philanthropy’s plural character and the enduring tension between altruism and control.
Key Topics
- Historical evolution of philanthropy
- Religious and moral foundations of giving
- Aristocratic patronage and civic associations
- Philanthropic foundations and professionalization
- Colonial legacies and neo-colonial critique
- Mutual aid and grassroots solidarity networks
Suggested Citation
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). The Evolution of Giving Traditions: Historical, Cultural, and Political Dimensions of Philanthropy. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-philintrantrninnov-02
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