Why People Give : Interpreting Altruism (Paperback)

A deep analysis of the other side of philanthrophy on how motivation and realization impact people to give supplemented with real life stories on the way they became catalysts for positive change.

Why do people really give?
Does giving indicate a kind heart?
Is altruism about feeling good or is there more to it?

We regularly see numerous displays of altruistic behaviour and instances of philanthropy, where the beneficiaries are often complete strangers. We cannot understand philanthropy without considering the motivation for giving: Why people give, their beliefs and, more importantly, the realization that in giving we receive.

This book is passionately argued, deeply researched and full of indelible stories of real people. The authors build a case for altruism and the urgent need for empathy in an increasingly self-centred and materialistic world.

Through stories drawn from real life, this book will change how we look at the act of giving. It shows that each one of us can bring about a change, if only we have the will. We don't have to wait for governments or big corporations to act because the power lies within us--we can be the catalysts.