Sociology Faculty Publishes Book on American Generosity

Oxford University Press

Patricia Snell Herzog and Heather E. Price, sociologists who focus on philanthropy, draw on findings from the groundbreaking Science of Generosity initiative, which combines a nationally representative survey of adult Americans with in-depth interviews and case studies. The crucial question of who gives and why they do it lies at the heart of American Generosity. 

For most Americans, they find, the important forms of giving are: donating money, volunteering time, and taking political action. Focusing on these three types of activity, the authors go on to examine and analyze multiple dimensions of resources, social status, regional cultural norms, different approaches to giving, social-psychological orientation, and the relational contexts of generosity.

Herzog and Price conclude that giving is supported by "circles of generosity," which ripple outward in their reach to targets of giving. The book offers not just analysis, but practical tips for readers who want to increase their own giving, for parents modeling giving to their children, spouses desiring alignment in their giving, and friends and community members seeking to support giving by others. The authors also provide fundraising ideas for nonprofits, foundations, and religious leaders.

Brian Steensland of Indiana University-Indianapolis, wrote: "Herzog and Price marshal a wide range of data — including both hard numbers and personal stories — to examine the factors that explain generous behavior. They show that generosity isn't just based on what you're able to give. It's based on who you are, how you think, and with whom you are in relationship. This will become a standard reference for understanding patterns of philanthropic behavior."

About the authors: Patricia Snell Herzog is a co-investigator on the Science of Generosity Initiative and assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at the University of Arkansas. Heather E. Price is a co-investigator on the Science of Generosity Phase II. Previously Price was assistant director of the Center for the Study of Religion at the University of Notre Dame.

American Generosity: Who Gives and Why
Patricia Snell Herzog and Heather E. Price
ISBN: 9780190456498
Website: goo.gl/uu9hVp