The Self‐Help Myth: Towards a Theory of Philanthropy as Consensus Broker

This article proposes a theory of philanthropy as a "consensus broker," challenging the "self-help myth." It examines how philanthropic power is maintained through negotiating consensus between funders and social movement leaders, often obscuring structural inequalities. Drawing on research in California's Central Valley, the article argues that grant agreements can construct idealized public participation, diverting attention from systemic issues and ultimately generating consent rather than true transformative change in addressing poverty.