Who is a philanthropist?

A philanthropist is a Greek word. The literal translation says that the philanthropist is a person who loves people. Over time, the term has acquired a more specific meaning. A philanthropist is called a person who is engaged in charity, helping the needy. Philanthropy is usually opposed to misanthropy - hatred for humanity, non-acceptance of people.

History of the word

Mention of philanthropists can be found inancient texts. For example, in ancient Rome, the so-called person who sacrificed his means to calm the disgruntled people was called that. As a rule, donations were made by well-to-do citizens. The church also took part in charity, but more often to maintain its authority.

Philanthropists today

Today, in many countries, funds andorganizations that collect money for those who need it. Usually the collection of funds is for seriously ill people, refugees, orphans, victims of disasters.

Among famous people you can also meetphilanthropists. Leo Tolstoy and Anton Chekhov did a lot for children, orphans and seriously ill people. Among the living now, too, there are celebrities who sacrifice huge funds for the needy. Among them are Angelina Jolie, Bill Gates, Madonna, Gordon Moore.

Many haters blame philanthropists that their love of people is measured only in monetary terms. But, one way or another, the funds go to good ends, to help those who are in a difficult situation.

Now you know who the philanthropist is. Perhaps, the views of philanthropists are close to you.