The Greater Good: How Philanthropy Drives the American Economy and Can Save Capitalism

by Claire Gaudiani

A persuasive re-examination of American prosperity and the generosity that has built our nation.

For over a century, the United States has stood as a beacon of prosperity and democracy, proof that big business and big dreams could flourish side by side. Yet few Americans realize the crucial role that generosity plays in keeping that fragile balance. And now, with gated communities, oppressive personal debts, shrinking government, and tax and welfare reform crusades, that essential moral glue is at risk of melting away.

A leading voice for community development, former Connecticut College president and scholar Claire Gaudiani explores all these issues as she examines American prosperity from the Constitution to the New Economy bust. She traces the push and pull of the robber barons and the progressive movement, the New Deal and the postwar boom, and the Me Decade and the technology revolution, finding that altruism powerfully invests in people, property, and ingenuity. Rather than pitting the capitalists against the populists, Gaudiani brings both sides to the table to reseal this fundamental social contract and provide a blueprint for a just future.

The Greater Good is a passionate, pragmatic, and, finally, optimistic manifesto for revitalizing the promise of the American economy.

304 pages, Paperback

First published September 10, 2003

About the author

Claire Lynn Gaudiani was an American academic and president of Connecticut College from 1988 to 2001. She graduated from Connecticut College in 1966. During her tenure as president, the college's endowment grew significantly, and its national profile rose. Gaudiani was also known for her controversial role in the redevelopment of New London, Connecticut, which led to the landmark Supreme Court case Kelo v. City of New London.

Reviews

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good introduction to philanthropy and raises some interesting points about how it works in America. I do fear, however, that it is a little simplistic. Yes, she makes some good points and backs them up with interesting anecdotes, but I wish she would play a little more devil's advocate with herself. The argument about philanthropy saving capitalism veers dangerously close to advocating a government less involved with helping out those who need help. Finding the right balance between philanthropy and government welfare is the tricky part. This book doesn't really tackle that. Good points, but not enough for me.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Optimistic? Yeah, definitely! Doable? Hard to tell, probably but it will take a long time sadly. This book is from 2003 so we are all witnesses of how we've become more self-absorbed over the years instead of taking the generosity path, we are not taking care of each other, we don't care about our nations or the world, is every man for themselves... The ideas in this book are amazing and if they could transform into actions it will do wonders for our societies, all the stories were so inspiring. I wish this will turn eventually into our reality, for everyone's sake.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really liked the concept of this book but the length and verbiage made it a difficult pleasure read. If, on the other hand, I needed facts for a presentation, I could have found them here thus I can appreciate her expertise and research on the subject. A very thorough thesis.

[Shari · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was 90% history lesson on how philanthropy has shaped American history, and 10% framework on where we should go next. Should have been the other way around. As a result, I was COMPLETELY bored out of my mind until the very last chapter, and wished it had been constructed differently. (Still, it's not like I'VE written a book...)

[Eba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great perspective that should be a must read for all development professionals!

[Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book very interesting. It discusses how capitalism, democracy and philanthropy can (and sometimes do)work together to improve our lives.

[Ahmad Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

We need the soul of this book.

[Cat Gray · Rating 3 out of 5]

excellent resource for fundraisers