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Susan Aurelia Gitelson’s Giving Is Not Just For The Very Rich provides practical steps toward a more altruistic life. And why is that even needed? Why do we need to learn how to live a more giving life? Isn’t there enough trouble in the world? Why wade into it at all?

Now, the impulse to give, to share and to alleviate suffering is something that all humans feel deeply.

The moral heart is something that all humans possess; it is simply willfully inactive in others. It can be argued that the default setting for humanity is altruistic, and that it is only because of millennia of false conditioning that makes us deeply untrusting and individualistic–but that is a digression.

Going back to the earlier thread of conversation, the moral heart speaks to our inherent interconnectedness and our innate capacity for compassion. Therefore, it can be rightfully said that philanthropy, in its broadest sense, is the manifestation of this impulse, the act of contributing to the well-being of others.

However, the pathway of ethical giving is not always straightforward. You can’t just give something to someone and call it day, no, no, no. Proper ethical giving requires careful consideration, critical reflection, and a commitment to aligning our actions with our values.

As such, this brief guide attempts to illuminate the complexities of ethical giving and philanthropy, offering an accessible framework for people to remember handily and apply to their day-to-day.

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The Foundations of Ethical Giving

Now, what is ethical giving? Is giving itself not entirely ethical? Why add the modifier to it? Well, firstly, of course, there is a difference between plain giving and ethical giving. In the general sense of giving, there is no indication or requirement as to the intent. Giving just means one thing passes from the hand of someone to another.

On the other hand, ethical giving has a more philosophical and moral foundation. It’s not just giving something and then saying one did a good thing. It’s much more complex, as everything stands. The benefits and morality of charity might be simple, but the way to go about it can be more complicated. Beneath the straightforward surface of kindness, there’s a whole lot to consider.

In ethical giving, there is clear intent, and there is mindful consideration. Transparency is extremely paramount, and the respect for the dignity and autonomy of beneficiaries is essential.

All of this means avoiding paternalistic approaches that undermine the agency of those being helped. Rather, an aim of ethical giving is to empower individuals and communities to participate in shaping their own destinies. This means that people have the means to help themselves, but they only need some help to get on their feet and really give life their all.

Justice and equity are fundamental to ethical giving. This involves addressing the root causes of inequality and working to create a more just and equitable society. Remember what was said about charity being much more complex than it is on the surface? It requires a critical examination of power dynamics and a commitment to dismantling systems of oppression.

Ethical giving seeks to empower marginalized communities and amplify their voices, embodying the adage of teaching men to fish instead of just giving them fish all day.

So why not be ethical in your giving?

The Transformative Power of The Moral Heart

Ethical giving is the manifestation of the moral heart and has the power to transform lives, communities, and societies. Aligning your actions with your values and committing to principles of transparency, respect, and justice can create a more just and equitable world.

The act of giving can also be transformative for the one doing the giving. It can provide a sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment. It can deepen our understanding of the world and inspire us to become more compassionate and engaged citizens.

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Susan Aurelia Gitelson’s Giving Is Not Just For the Very Rich serves as a much more personal and comprehensive guide to ethical giving and philanthropy–and, fortunately, is available for purchase on this very website. If you think this article has some points and/or you really want to learn more about effective charity, this book can be purchased on the other side of this link!