Why philanthropy really exists

Much is made of how philanthropy is a rupee short of being pointless, and why if you really want to make a difference, skip being charitable and create earning opportunities. It's the old 'Give the man a fishing rod, not fish' stream of thinking. Well, all this is true. The one time, two times, x times of giving are the proverbial drops in the ocean that does nothing to move the needle of worth for the grateful recipient. It may also make the recipient become only too dependent on handouts. Providing jobs, and building and maintaining companies that not only create wealth but also distribute it, is far more effective in the upliftment game. But, but...

...in the cost-benefit of 'philanthropy vs capitalising', one thing is conveniently ignored: charity and creating employment opportunities may smell similar - both bringing in much-needed moolah into the receiver's pockets - but charity serves an altogether separate function for the charitable. It provides the philanthropist immediate, palpable pleasure of seeing someone instantly benefiting before one's eyes. That is the reason why one donates, hands out change to beggars, makes contributions in places of worship.... There are zero returns - except feeling good, literally beholden. Something a factory or an enterprise, despite providing more in the long run, won't provide so directly.