Elite philanthropy in the United States and United Kingdom in the new age of inequalities

This theoretically-oriented review examines elite philanthropy in the US and UK, arguing that large-scale voluntary giving by the wealthy is deeply intertwined with the exercise of elite power. It posits that elite philanthropy extends control from the economic to social and political domains, potentially perpetuating inequalities rather than solely being a benign force. The article highlights how philanthropy concentrates power in major foundations and charitable organizations, distinguishing between institutional, market-oriented, developmental, and transformational philanthropy types.