Philanthropy Action

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Archive

Apr 24, 2009

Global Philanthropy Forum: Choosing Projects Guaranteed to Succeed

Something of an axiom seems to have emerged within the discussion about philanthropy and the public sector, which claims that one of the advantages of philanthropy over government is that philanthropic efforts can take more risks.

Apr 23, 2009

Global Philanthropy Forum: Are Partnerships the Only Answer?

Some of the touchy issues of public-private partnership were taken up during a well-conceived health infrastructure break-out at the Global Philanthropy Forum.

Apr 22, 2009

Global Philanthropy Forum: Partnering with Governments

The theme of the first day of Global Philanthropy Forum seemed to be partnerships between government and philanthropy, and the overall view of so many of the speakers and participants was that such linkages are key to success in many social sectors, from education to health.

Apr 21, 2009

Mounds of Data on Education Interventions

It should be no surprise that programs to improve education and schools are as poorly studied as most other philanthropic efforts. We’ve lamented the poor state of journalism on the topic before. But I’ve recently come across a number of papers documenting high quality studies of some of the most popular education interventions.

Apr 06, 2009

Moratorium on Moyo Mumbling

Both those who have praised or condemned Dambisa Moyo’s new book seem to have lost touch—as they fine-tune the language of their point-counterpoint—with an inexorable reality: there is zero chance that Western governments will cut off aid flows to Africa within five years. Is there any practical advice on offer anywhere?

Apr 01, 2009

The Life You Can Save: How to Live, or How to Give?

Princeton University philosophy professor Peter Singer has been getting a lot of attention lately with the publication of his book, The Life You Can Save.