Rockefeller's View
"Rockefeller's philanthropy was more oriented toward the creation of knowledge, and if it seemed more impersonal, it was also far more pervasive in its effect." -Ron Chernow, Titan Rockefeller sincerely wanted to contribute for the betterment of mankind. Always the leader, he used the "matching grant" method where he donated money only if other donors pledged the same amount. He also stimulated "rivalry" in philanthropy by competing with steel king Andrew Carnegie.
"They [Rockefeller, his son, and Gates] remade personal charity into an organized, institutional enterprise modeled on corporate business practices. This new philanthropy did not seek to provide direct relief to the diseased or impoverished, but instead looked to systematic, scientific principles to cure the 'root causes' underlying both physical illness and social problems." |
Founded by Rockefeller
1. Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research
- Established in 1902 as one of the best medical institutions of its time.
- Eventually became Rockefeller University.
"[Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research] devoted solely to using biomedical research to understand the underlying causes of disease... made numerous seminal contributions to biology and medicine... 24 scientists associated with the university have received Nobel Prizes... 14 have been given the National Medal of Science... Rockefeller has devoted over half a century to training the next generation of innovative, pathbreaking scientists."
-Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research
2. Rockefeller Foundation
- Founded in 1913 with initial funds of $360 million.
- Initially for medical purposes, now an international foundation contributing in multiple fields.
Left and Middle: Rockefeller Foundation. Right: 1924. New York Times.
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"The Rockefeller Foundation’s mission has been to promote the well-being of humanity throughout the world."
-Rockefeller Foundation
"...Plagues such as hookworm and malaria have been brought under control; food production for the hungry in many parts of the world has been increased; and minds, hearts, and spirits have been lifted [by the Rockefeller Foundation]..."
-Rockefeller Foundation
"The Foundation has always aspired to bold, global solutions. Approaching complex conceptual challenges and systemic dysfunction from a variety of angles has been the alpha and omega of the Foundation’s character and vision."
-Rockefeller Foundation
3. General Education Board
- Established with $129 million in 1903.
- Promoted education "without distinction of sex, race, or creed."
"[The General Education Board] supported some of the earliest and most substantial efforts to open the doors of higher education to African Americans."
-Rockefeller Foundation
4. Laura Spelman Rockefeller Memorial
- Founded after the death of Rockefeller's beloved wife in 1915 with $74 million.
- Social science research.