Review by Choice Review
The editors of the series in which this book appears contend that popular culture is "an essential analytical key to understanding ... the various confrontations--class, race, gender and place--that define contemporary power relations." Reinforced by the growth of electronic media, popular culture has given birth to the figure of the popular celebrity. In a time when non-governmental philanthropy is asked to resolve social problems and can sometimes influence government budgets, celebrities have moved to center stage as "celanthropists." Jeffreys and Allatson (both, Univ. of Technology, Sydney, Australia) have gathered 11 essays, by scholars from around the globe, that document celebrity philanthropy and evaluate its motives and effects. The philanthropy comes in the form of endorsements, creation of foundations, direct money gifts, advocacy, or prescription. Though such philanthropy may reflect a celebrity's quest for a better world, it may also be political dissent, self-promotion, or advocacy of Northern Hemisphere imperial capitalism. Presenting research and insights from scholars in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, this volume promotes a more nuanced understanding of philanthropists and celebrities, reveals the collateral effects of good efforts, and examines how philanthropy is viewed by its recipients. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals. --James Howell Smith, Wake Forest University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
