Philanthropy in Democratic Societies: History, Institutions, Values. Edited by Rob Reich, Chiara Cordelli, and Lucy Bernholz. Chicago: University of Chicago Press …

Lenkowsky reviews a volume edited by Reich, Cordelli, and Bernholz, which explores philanthropy in democratic contexts. He summarizes key themes, including institutional accountability, inherent tensions between private giving and egalitarian democracy, and the evolving norms that define philanthropic legitimacy. The review highlights the ongoing debate about the influence of wealthy donors on public policy and the broader implications for democratic governance.