Philanthropic miscellaneousness

I know that the name looks and sounds confusing, perhaps totally random. You will, however, understand the reference to 'Telescopic Philanthropy' if you are unfortunate enough to have read Bleak House. Basically, the chapter expresses Charles Dickens' disdain towards 'bad philanthropy' through a character named Mrs. Jellyby, a mother who neglects to prioritise efficiently; raising charity for the people of Borrioboola-Gha is clearly more important than family. Mrs. Jellyby wishes for other people to donate to the cause, not paying a penny from her own piggy bank, but insinuates that she wishes to be recognised in her community. She spends most of her time looking after the Borrioboola-Gha tribes-people than she does looking after her family.

Charitable donations have increased exponentially since the 1980s and is continuing to grow at an unprecedented rate. The shift of intergenerational wealth is, perhaps coincidentally, equally unprecendented. As someone who does not earn half as much as an ordinary other, it is still understandable as to why the community would wish to donate for causes, no matter how heavily institutionalised these causes are. However, it was only until recently, after Dickens shined the light in the right direction, I have realised what philanthropy is.

Although Dickens wrote Bleak House over 150 years ago he has succesfully prophesied issues that skew the true meaning of philanthropy. Angelina Jolie and her wish for a rainbow family is one instance where 'bad philanthropy' is being practiced. Yes, she has good intentions by 'rescuing' these children but does she also have an ulterior motive? Perhaps I am being presumptuous, but it irks me to hear about her newest adoption. What's next, adopting a martian baby found by the newest NASA mission? She differs from Mrs. Jellyby in terms of family but whether or not Angelina Jolie wishes to extend her recognition on the world stage is questionable.

Perhaps if she adopted me then I'll be happy to edit this blog post and say otherwise.