Under the Mask of Phillanthropy

Book excerpt: "One of the most comprehensive and important books on the politics of capitalist philanthropy." -Professor Daniel Faber, author of Capitalizing on Environmental Justice "A timely demolition of one of capitalism's most important remaining sources of credibility." -Harry Browne, author of The Frontman "Barker's erudite and compelling book offers a vital corrective to the belief that voluntary gifts from the mega-rich can resolve the very global inequities which their business practices often perpetuate." -Linsey McGoey, author of No Such Thing as a Free Gift "Michael Barker's historically grounded critique of those most pernicious of political forces, the philanthropic foundations, is superb and unsurpassed. Everyone who is serious about a rebuilt Left that can win should read this book. As Barker shows masterfully the foundations exist to confuse, deflect, and channel away the wrath of the people. By muddying the intellectual waters foundations have been as damaging as police spies and company thugs. They operate by the logic Machiavelli explained, 'you may hold the fortresses, yet they will not save you if the people hate you...' Thus the foundations defend capitalism by placating, ameliorating, confusing, and fomenting division." -Christian Parenti, author of Lockdown America: Police and Prisons in the Age of Crisis