Podcast Summary: Giving Done Right – Episode: Taking on Philanthropy’s Toughest Critiques with Beth Brees

Introduction and Context

In the January 16, 2025 episode of Giving Done Right, hosted by Phil Buchanan and Grace Nicolette from the Center for Effective Philanthropy, Professor Beth Brees joins the conversation to address and defend the role of philanthropy amidst growing critiques. Beth Brees, Director and Co-Founder of the Center for Philanthropy and Professor of Philanthropic Studies at the University of Kent, brings extensive experience from her early career as a fundraiser for youth homelessness charities to her academic contributions, including her acclaimed book, In Defense of Philanthropy (2021).

The Need to Defend Philanthropy

Beth Brees opens the discussion by highlighting the problematic shift in the perception of philanthropy. She laments how the noble intent behind philanthropy—the "love of humankind"—has been tainted by negative critiques that often misrepresent the sector.

Beth Brees [00:29]: "It'S terrible if we've turned the word love of humankind, which is all that philanthropists means, into something so problematic when on an absolutely daily basis people are using philanthropy just to help each other out in some of their darkest moments."

The Three Critiques of Philanthropy

Beth categorizes the critiques of philanthropy into three primary types: academic, insider, and populist. She elaborates on each, explaining their origins and shortcomings.

1. Academic Critique

   The academic critique focuses on the structural issues within philanthropy, arguing that endowed foundations wield disproportionate power, thereby undermining democracy.

   Beth Brees [03:14]: "The core critique is that it's undemocratic... Philanthropy is undermining democracy."

   Beth points out that while these critiques start with valid concerns about power dynamics, they often escalate to blanket condemnations without acknowledging the sector's complexities and positive impacts.

2. Insider Critique

   Originating from within the philanthropic sector, this critique emphasizes the distribution of philanthropic funds, often aligned with the effective altruism movement's metrics-based approach. Beth argues that this perspective can disregard personal motivations behind giving and the emotional aspects of philanthropy.

   Beth Brees [03:14]: "The insider critique is very much that what and telling you where your money should go."

   She underscores that donors are motivated by personal connections and desires to honor loved ones, which cannot always be quantified by metrics alone.

3. Populist Critique

   The populist critique arises from popular media and public discourse, simplifying philanthropy's motivations and portraying it negatively. Beth explains that these critiques often ignore the mutual benefits philanthropy brings to society.

   Beth Brees [03:14]: "Some people like their name on a building. There's a bit of ego in that."

   Beth highlights how the populist view distorts the true intentions behind philanthropic actions, reducing them to self-serving motives.

Philanthropy and Democracy

Phil Buchanan emphasizes the interconnectedness of philanthropy and democracy, especially in the face of declining charitable participation rates in the U.S.

Phil Buchanan [08:31]: "Philanthropy and democracy as mutually, as sometimes fractiously interdependent and to understand both as dynamic, contextual and in need of ongoing improvement from external pressures."

Beth agrees, likening the nonprofit sector to a "nursery school of democracy" where collective decision-making and community engagement foster democratic values.

Beth Brees [10:30]: "Philanthropy and the nonprofit sector are the nursery school of democracy... where we learn how to interact and make collective decisions."

Addressing Donor Misdeeds and Negative Aspects

Grace Nicolette raises concerns about donors with ill-gotten wealth or those attempting to launder reputations through philanthropy. Beth acknowledges these issues but distinguishes between defending the practice of philanthropy and excusing individual malpractices.

Beth Brees [14:15]: "A defense of philanthropy is not a defense of all philanthropy and all philanthropic actions."

She advocates for a nuanced approach, recognizing that while some donors may misuse their wealth, philanthropy as an institution remains vital for societal good.

The Role of Donors vs. Recipients

Phil Buchanan stresses the importance of recognizing the diverse ecosystem of nonprofits that serve communities, often operating without the need for profit or electoral success.

Phil Buchanan [18:35]: "Somebody who buys a private jet... We should be celebrating this array of organizations and the people who support them."

Beth concurs, emphasizing the emotional and personal motivations behind philanthropy, such as compassion, gratitude, and the desire to support others in their darkest moments.

Beth Brees [31:10]: "Philanthropy is a fundamentally emotional business... It's about being decent people and reaching out to each other."

Real-World Examples of Philanthropy's Positive Impact

Beth shares inspiring stories of everyday philanthropy that often go unnoticed but have profound impacts on communities. She contrasts large, high-profile donations with the multitude of small, meaningful contributions that collectively drive societal improvement.

Beth Brees [42:01]: "The Garfield Weston foundation... making our scout hut wheelchair accessible so that the kid in the community is in a wheelchair, can join the scout group."

Phil adds a personal anecdote about a nonprofit providing critical support during a family crisis, illustrating how philanthropy offers essential services that government or for-profit entities may not adequately provide.

Phil Buchanan [29:57]: "We reached out to that organization one time... that's what we get through philanthropy."

Beth's Inspirations and Motivations

Beth discusses her personal journey, highlighting how her own experiences benefiting from philanthropy fueled her passion to defend and enhance the sector. She underscores the positive motivations—such as empathy and gratitude—that drive philanthropists.

Beth Brees [45:09]: "I was a beneficiary of philanthropy... all of us have been in different ways."

Advice for Committed Philanthropists

As the conversation wraps up, Beth offers practical advice for aspiring philanthropists. She emphasizes the importance of building a community with like-minded donors, embracing the learning process, and understanding that philanthropy involves both successes and failures.

Beth Brees [49:01]: "Find other people who share that outlook... it's about finding that community of fellow donors so you can support each other."

Conclusion

Beth Brees presents a compelling defense of philanthropy, countering prevalent critiques by highlighting its essential role in fostering democracy, supporting vulnerable communities, and enhancing societal well-being. Through thoughtful analysis and real-world examples, she advocates for a balanced understanding of philanthropy's strengths and challenges.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Beth Brees [00:29]: "It'S terrible if we've turned the word love of humankind, which is all that philanthropists means, into something so problematic..."
• Pete Brees [03:14]: "The insider critique is very much that what and telling you where your money should go."
• Beth Brees [10:30]: "Philanthropy and the nonprofit sector are the nursery school of democracy..."
• Phil Buchanan [08:31]: "Philanthropy and democracy as mutually, as sometimes fractiously interdependent..."
• Beth Brees [14:15]: "A defense of philanthropy is not a defense of all philanthropy..."
• Beth Brees [31:10]: "Philanthropy is a fundamentally emotional business..."
• Beth Brees [45:09]: "I was a beneficiary of philanthropy... all of us have been in different ways."
• Beth Brees [49:01]: "Find other people who share that outlook... it's about finding that community of fellow donors so you can support each other."

This episode serves as a vital resource for understanding the multifaceted nature of philanthropy, encouraging listeners to engage thoughtfully and effectively in charitable endeavors.