Crimes of the Dominant: How Philanthrocapitalism Perpetuates Inequality
"Unmasking the Shadowy Side of Elite Giving: Is Philanthropy Really Solving Problems, or Just Masking Them?"
Critiques of capitalism often employ metaphors of horror to depict its predatory nature. From Marx's vampire-like capital to contemporary analogies of corporate entities as monstrous creatures, these images highlight the exploitative aspects of wealth accumulation. However, these metaphors often fail to capture the 'smiling face' of capitalism, which presents a benevolent image of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
Modern philanthrocapitalism distinguishes itself through its charm and an 'ideology of harmony,' reconciling acts of giving with profit-making. Rather than a villain, the philanthrocapitalist presents as a benevolent figure, offering market-based solutions to global problems. This article examines the social effects of these new philanthropic movements, which encourage corporate social responsibility.
Drawing from Linsey McGoey's qualitative research on major philanthropic foundations, including textual analysis of U.S. tax returns and interviews with key figures from organizations like the Gates Foundation, this article introduces fresh insights into the operations and impacts of philanthrocapitalism.
The Rise of Philanthrocapitalism and Its Discontents
This article analyzes the social and economic implications of recent pro-corporate shifts within philanthropy, linking philanthrocapitalism to the concept of 'crimes of the powerful.' Developed by critical criminologists, this framework examines how dominant groups manipulate regulatory mechanisms to serve their interests while avoiding public condemnation. It posits that corporate and state criminality often result from collaborative efforts, such as governments choosing not to prosecute or enforce laws against corporate malfeasance.
- Distributing philanthropic grants to corporations allows companies to benefit from tax advantages
- Billionaires can create for-profit companies that allow them to contribute in a way that benefits social causes and generates revenue.
- These philanthropic actions are seen in a positive light and often give the impression of contributing to public good.
The Illusion of Benevolence
By integrating a critique of philanthrocapitalism with studies of 'crimes of the dominant,' this analysis reveals how the social costs of extreme capital accumulation are masked by the sanctification of philanthropic giving. This sanctification provides both refuge and artifice, obscuring the social harms caused by unregulated market practices. Consequently, the capitalist enterprise deceptively appears disconnected from state support, fostering the illusion that market mechanisms are more profitable than they truly are.