The culture of philanthropy in Turkey: A sociological research on wealthy donors

The inequality of income distribution on a global and national scale as a result of modern capitalist system and the new world order leads to deepening the gap between the rich and the poor. It is evident that philanthropy will contribute to the solution of many social and economic problems along with poverty. In this respect, important duties are fallen to individuals, especially to states, national and international organizations and non-governmental organizations. The interest in philanthropy and high amounts of donations by the rich make significant contributions to the search for solutions to general social problems on the level of individual and corporate donations. Therefore, the philosophical perceptions and behaviors of the rich and their contributions to the culture of philanthropy constitute the main subject of this research. One of the reasons for this research is that it will contribute to the studies on the rich as the relationship between the rich and philanthropy in our country has not been examined in the sociological context. This research aiming at identifying and describing the philanthropic culture of the rich and their subcomponents is a field research carried out on some wealthy families and individuals residing in Turkey's three provinces (Malatya, which in the east, Konya, which is in the middle, and Istanbul, which is in the west of Turkey) . In the research, a qualitative method was used, in which observation and in-depth interviews were conducted. The sample group of the study consists of 45 people. In the research, it was determined that there are many factors among the reasons for donating. It seems that among them are religious beliefs and attitudes, empathy, access to the psychology of peace and happiness, social responsibility and social justice, social solidarity and solidarity. In addition, along with important contributions to the culture of philanthropy, the objectives and tendencies such as achieving political and economic gains, increasing status and prestige, and showing off their wealth through philanthropy constitute an important aspect of philanthropy of the rich. Key Words: Philanthropy, Donation, The Rich, Poverty, Social Justice, Social Welfare, Social Solidarity, Voluntary Foundations