From the Readers

Philanthropy is for everyone

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-10-28 08:07

Comment on "Wealthy wary of grand giveaways" (China Daily, Oct 20)

Many people assume that China's super-rich are expected to donate at least part of their wealth to the poor, especially after United Sates' billionaire-philanthropists Bill Gates and Warren Buffett hosted a charity dinner in Beijing.

According to the latest world's richest list, China has more billionaires than any other country. No wonder, the public thinks China's super-rich should donate for charity to pay back part of what they owe to society.

But the significance of the issue extends beyond the spirit of generosity. The public is inclined to weigh the money the rich donate to determine their benevolence. The focus of philanthropy is, however, shifting. Good deeds are not limited to the super-rich but are being shared by the entire society. Some people are misled by the view that only the wealthy can contribute to charity.

The fact is good deeds not only benefit others, but also those who do it, for they bring peace to the heart. Irrespective of our commitment to philanthropy, every cent we donate is worthy of the act.

Feng Qiaojie, via e-mail

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China Daily

(China Daily 10/28/2010 page9)