Acts of Humanity, Expectations of Returns

Why do we give to distant sufferers in need? Are we motivated primarily by altruism or opportunism? What, if anything, do givers expect in return for significant acts of generosity? This article explores these questions through an examination of corporate giving to Japan from America's industrial heartland following the Great Kantō Earthquake. Large corporate donations comprised a significant part of America's "tsunami of aid" to Japan in 1923. Why? What did corporate givers hope to accomplish or achieve? Recognition of Japan as an important commercial partner and expectations of expanded trade, my findings suggest, significantly influenced donations from key corporate actors

Economics · Humanity · Theology · China's Socioeconomic Reforms and Governance · Japanese History and Culture · Philosophy · Vietnamese History and Culture Studies