Abstract

Nielsen, a former foundation officer and consultant, tells us that: “Some nonobsequious writing [on foundations] has begun to appear … (431).” Unfortunately, The Golden Donors is not of that genre. To be sure, this study of the thirty-six largest foundations is critical of many and hands out evaluations for each on the grounds of public policy activism (good) or conventionality (bad), and the behavior of trustees and staff. Nevertheless, die text is replete with the language of public relations — full of “shining examples,” “innovative, philosophical and provocative speeches,” “invigorating research” and even “constructive” conservatism.