MACMILLAN The Science of Generosity: Causes, Manifestations, and Consequences (Palgrave Studies in Altruism, Morality, and Social Solidarity)

This book advances understanding of the manifestations, causes, and consequences of generosity. Synthesizing the findings of the 14 research projects conducted by the Science of Generosity Initiative and offering an appendix of methods for studying generosity, this comprehensive account integrates insights from disparate disciplines to facilitate a broader understanding of giving―ultimately creating a compendium of not only the latest research in the field of altruistic behaviors, but also a research roadmap for the future. As the author sequentially explores the manifestations, causes, and consequences of generosity, Patricia Snell Herzog here also offers analyses ranging from the micro- to macro-level to paint a full picture of the individual, interpersonal and familial, and collective (inter)actions involved in altruism and generosity. The author concludes with a call to stimulate further interdisciplinary generosity studies, describing the implications for emerging scholars and practitioners across sociology, economics, political science, religious studies, and beyond. Review “Herzog gives us all a wonderful gift with this intellectual omnivore’s guide to understanding generosity. Any serious library of philanthropy scholarship must now include The Science of Generosity.” (Michael Moody, Frey Foundation Chair for Family Philanthropy, Grand Valley State University, USA) “Clearly and vividly written, The Science of Generosity provides a novel, integrated approach to generosity, making it a foundational resource for scholars and students alike.” (Shai M. Dromi, Lecturer in Sociology, Harvard University, USA) “Herzog’s work is a must read for researchers studying generosity across the social sciences, practitioners interested in generosity across industries, and teachers and parents who can foster generosity in the young.” (Jan E. Stets, Professor of Sociology and Director of the Social Psychology Research Laboratory (SPYRL), University of California, USA) From the Back Cover This book advances understanding of the manifestations, causes, and consequences of generosity. Synthesizing the findings of the 14 research projects conducted by the Science of Generosity Initiative and offering an appendix of methods for studying generosity, this comprehensive account integrates insights from disparate disciplines to facilitate a broader understanding of giving―ultimately creating a compendium of not only the latest research in the field of altruistic behaviors, but also a research roadmap for the future. As the author sequentially explores the manifestations, causes, and consequences of generosity, Patricia Snell Herzog here also offers analyses ranging from the micro- to macro-level to paint a full picture of the individual, interpersonal and familial, and collective (inter)actions involved in altruism and generosity. The author concludes with a call to stimulate further interdisciplinary generosity studies, describing the implications for emerging scholars and practitioners across sociology, economics, political science, religious studies, and beyond. About the Author Patricia Snell Herzog is Melvin Simon Chair and Associate Professor in the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, USA. She received her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Notre Dame. Herzog’s interests include social scientific investigations of charitable giving, youth and emerging adults, and religiosity, including the books American Generosity: Who Gives and Why (2016) and Souls in Transition: The Religious Lives of Emerging Adults in America (2009).