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Origin

How is the history of inequality intertwined with the history of Western philanthropy? Unravel long standing patterns, and explore other cultural conceptions of giving.

What is the use of trying to describe the flowing of a river at any one moment, and then at the next moment, and then at the next, … You say, ‘There is a great river and it flows through this land, and we have named it History.’

Ursula K. Le Guin, American Speculative Fiction Author

Posts from Origin

Three hands juggling white balls over a background of textured folds.

Theme: Origin Type: Introductory

Introduction to Origin Stories

Get curious about how societies practiced giving and resource redistribution in other times and places. Appreciate contemporary philanthropy in its historical and cultural context.

A black & white posed photograph with three men seated behind a table with documents atop it, and four men behind them. all are wearing suits.

Theme: Origin Type: Core concepts

Timeline of Institutional Philanthropy

Gain insights into the origins of present-day philanthropy by getting curious about the purpose, values, beliefs, and power dynamics, behind past practices.

A photo of the Chinese Mutual Aid storefront, taken from across the street. Above the sign is a mural and a truck is parked in

Theme: Origin Type: Core concepts

Map of Giving Practices

Find new perspective on what modern, Western philanthropy is and isn't by surveying other practices of giving and the philosophies that underlie them.

Large white roll paper is taped up on floor to ceiling windows, covered in colourful post-its, with three empty chairs in the foreground.

Theme: Origin Type: Generative

Reflecting on How the Past Shapes the Present

Trace the narratives and beliefs from the past that have influenced your experience and perspective of philanthropy today.

Origin stories podcast

A guided tour through multiple cultures and times offers diverse perspectives on what philanthropy is and what it was designed to do. Delve into the intertwining histories of inequality and philanthropy.

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Theme

Origin

Ursula K. Le Guin, American Speculative Fiction Author

Posts from Origin

Origin stories podcast

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