Is philanthropy a way for the wealthy to convert wealth into happiness? : preliminary exploration in France

This study aims to understand the diverse views and perceptions of philanthropy among the wealthy and their possible links with happiness. It is based on a qualitative approach. Some of our findings on the mindsets of the rich towards philanthropy and the use of wealth hold true in other national settings when compared to previous literature on "major donors." Some results may be more specific to French society, whose relation to money and wealth and to private initiatives for the public good (i.e. "philanthropy") is complex. Notwithstanding these peculiarities, happiness appears to be a more or less explicit driving force for rich people's philanthropy. In practical terms, focusing on happiness might be a fruitful lever to promote, strengthen and drive philanthropy among the wealthy in France.