It's not that I am against the rich giving money to charities. I'm all for it, and we should think of ways of encouraging more of it. But I also believe that states, rather than individuals, are ultimately a better bet for delivering a fair and just world and reconciling differing interests.

At the end of the day, philanthropy can only ever be an adjunct to what governments provide. And government coffers need to be replenished.

Most philanthropists would still rather donate to elite schools, concert halls or religious groups than help the poor or sick.

Noreena Hertz Quotes