by Wanjiru Mathii.

The biblical foundation of radical generosity

While it is indisputable that money is essential for basic amenities and a comfortable life, many have forgotten that there is so much more to life than money. Many of us are inclined to ponder more on what we can make or how much more we can save as opposed to how much we can give. Jesus was keen to warn his followers about storing up treasures on Earth and encouraged them to store up their treasures in Heaven instead. (Matthew 6: 19-21 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”)

Later on during his ministry when addressing a rich young ruler who was curious about inheriting eternal life, he talks about giving to the poor as a way of storing up treasures in Heaven. (Mark 10:21 “Looking at him, Jesus showed love to him and said to him, ‘One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’”) The early church even amid their poverty, extended what it had to those in need trusting the Lord to replenish what they had. This readiness to give more than is expected or desired simply put as radical generosity is not just dependent on how much is given but on the sacrifice that comes with giving.  

Radical generosity as a principle within the effective altruism movement

As Christians, we have a responsibility to love our neighbors as we love ourselves and this responsibility includes being generous to others both inside and outside our moral circle. Effective altruism emphasizes the importance of making a significant positive impact with one's resources and efforts, particularly in addressing pressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and health crisis. Radical generosity aligns with this goal by advocating for a mindset and practice of giving that goes beyond conventional notions of charity.

Radical generosity within the global south

While effective altruism is popular in affluent countries this commendable new way of doing philanthropy is steadily growing in the Global South. In many parts of the global south, communities face systemic issues such as poverty, lack of access to basic resources, and limited healthcare, and educational opportunities. The circumstances in these countries, however, modify how the principles of effective altruism ought to be applied, radical generosity being one of these.

For instance, the popular “earn to give” concept which stems from the principle of radical generosity is unlikely to have many proponents in the Global South. This is because it’s primarily focused on money one gives out to effective charities which is not hard for affluent countries with abundant high-paying jobs. However, getting a relatively high-paying job is reserved for the best-educated or most-skilled minority in the Global South, and even then, the earning is not close enough to the average earning of people in affluent countries. Even so, this is not to speak on the generosity of people in the Global South, in fact, according to the world giving index 2022, African countries consistently rank among the most generous in the world. Despite lower monetary contributions from African countries in comparison to wealthier countries, these African countries demonstrate remarkable excellence in terms of donation and volunteerism rates.  If you ask me, exhibiting generosity without the cushion of a high-paying job is a far more radical stance. 

Careful reasoning ought to be employed in adjusting effective altruism principles to avoid underestimating the contribution of effective altruists in the Global South. Additionally, there is a need to acknowledge generosity is not just manifested in giving money but also through sharing our skills, presence, support, advocacy, and mentorship. Community-based giving is prevalent in Africa where people come together and pull resources to share with others. Some popular communal-focused cultural giving practices include ‘Ubuntu’ from South Africa, ‘Harambee’ from Kenya, and ‘Ajo’ from Nigeria. These already-established cultural practices not only bring people together but also cultivate a culture of generosity.

These modest practices that may be considered to have little impact, have a tangible effect on individuals' lives as well as the lives of the communities they belong to. Expanding our understanding of generosity allows us to make significant contributions while addressing the unique problems in different societies. Moreover, it sidesteps the cold and transactional nature that many can feel towards giving money. 

Conclusion

The perspectives on effective altruism and radical generosity can vary within the global south, as it is a diverse and complex region with different social, cultural, and economic contexts. Therefore, it is crucial to engage in inclusive and respectful dialogue, considering local perspectives and priorities, when discussing effectiveness. Combining and embracing the principles of effective altruism with a global South perspective, radical generosity can become a powerful force for positive change.

This is not to discourage those who can accommodate monetary giving but rather a push to expand our understanding of generosity and an illustration of how radical generosity manifests itself in the Global South. There are certainly diverse ways in which we can accumulate treasures in heaven.