Peter Thiel and Philanthropy in the End of Days
Peter Thiel’s recent Antichrist lectures raised many eyebrows. But is he just eccentric, or do his worldview and approach to philanthropy tell us something important about wider trends that might shape philanthropy in the future?
Just Do It! What rich donors wish other rich people knew about philanthropy
In this article for Philanthropy Impact, Rhodri Davies highlights some of the findings of his new book “Rich Expectations: Why Rich People Give” (with Beth Breeze and Theresa Lloyd).
NEW BOOK OUT NOW!
This month sees the publication of Rich Expectations: Why Rich People Give, co-authored by WPM Director Rhodri Davies, alongside Prof Beth Breeze and Theresa Lloyd, exploring the nature and role of philanthropy in the UK and how expectations shape approaches and attitudes towards giving.

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Rich Expectations: Why Rich People Give (2025 BOOK)
Vom Geben und Nehmen
Rhodri Davies is interviewed about trends in elite philanthropy for Switzerland’s NZZ on Sunday magazine.
Bill Gates pledges his remaining fortune to the Gates Foundation, which will close in 20 years
Rhodri Davies is quoted in the article commenting on Bill Gates’s announcement of his plans to give away his remaining wealth over the next 20 years.
Why Philanthropy Matters Newsletter April 2025 #30
Is Elon Musk right that “empathy is the fundamental weakness of western civilization?”
We explore Elon Musk’s recent claim that “empathy is the fundamental weakness of Western civilisation” – what does it mean, where does it come from, and is there is any truth in it?
Philanthropy at a Time of Chaos
Following a barrage of executive orders and policy announcements from President Donald Trump which posed major challenges for civil society organisations, we take a look at some of the key questions for philanthropy at a time of chaos.
Sign of the Times? The Dells Grow Their Foundation by a Cool $5 Billion
Rhodri Davies is quoted in an article in Inside Philanthropy, commenting on a recent trend of billion-dollar plus gifts by US tech philanthropists.
