Philanthropy and the 'social history paradigm'

Kidd advocates for a social history lens in philanthropic studies, urging exploration of grassroots giving, class dynamics, and the social impact of charitable practices. He critiques elite-focused narratives, arguing that genuine understanding emerges from studying local philanthropic cultures and their social consequences across diverse historical contexts. The article emphasizes the importance of moving beyond traditional analyses to encompass a broader spectrum of charitable activities and their far-reaching societal effects.