Toxic Charity

October 15, 2011
Americans are a generous people. Individually and as a nation, we contribute money, goods, and countless volunteer hours in order to address needs both here and abroad. Yet poverty, hunger, unemployment, and lack of economic opportunity continue to plague individuals and communities the world over. Lupton, with many years of experience in urban renewal, argues that the lack of better results lies not in our good intentions but in our charitable activities themselves. We hurt those whom we seek to help. When relief does not transition to development in a timely way, compassion becomes toxic. Immediate needs such as food, clothing, and shelter should surely be met. Subsequent efforts must empower those less fortunate to do for themselves, lest we create a culture of dependence that is dehumanizing. Lupton chronicles examples of good intentions gone awry and examines charitable activities that are resulting in transformative outcomes. Compassion must be both long-term and results oriented if it is to be successful. A must-read book for those who give to help others.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)