The Gospel Of Wealth

Based on Carnegie’s essay, why is philanthropy important for society? Compare and contrast your response from the Personal Connection Prompt with Carnegie’s argument.

Teaching Suggestion: This Discussion/Analysis Prompt invites students to return to the discussion of philanthropy using Carnegie’s perspective. For Carnegie, philanthropy is not only a Duty and Moral Responsibility for the “Man of Wealth”; it is also a more desirable outcome for wealthier classes because it will not be taxed on the estate at the man’s death. Furthermore, philanthropic giving during one’s life will receive recognition, but “the man who dies leaving behind many millions of available wealth, which was his to administer during life, will pass away ‘unwept, unhonored, and unsung,’ no matter to what uses he leaves the dross which he cannot take with him.” In an in-class discussion, students may compare and contrast their viewpoint on philanthropy with Carnegie’s.

Differentiation Suggestion: For a more critical thinking approach, the following question may be added as well for an in-class discussion: Is philanthropy a force that is purely for good, or does it have a dark side? It could be argued that higher taxation for the wealthy would also accomplish the goal of creating funding for the community without relying on the generosity of the wealthy.