How to be great at doing good

Abstract

“How to be Great at Doing Good” challenges conventional wisdom about charity, arguing that we must treat doing good with the seriousness and rigor it deserves. This book draws on psychology, human behavior, and the author’s fifteen years of experience in non-profit work to provide a guide for donors, volunteers, and non-profit staff who want to truly make a difference. It delves into the science of giving, exploring why our brains can lead us to make poor charity choices and how to overcome these biases. The book also investigates the impact of passion and expertise on charitable efforts, revealing that what we’re good at may not always be what’s best for the world. Through case studies and interviews with philanthropy professionals, it sheds light on the crucial differences between seemingly similar charities and offers insights into choosing the most impactful organizations for donations. This unconventional approach to charity is sure to spark debate, but ultimately underscores the necessity of a more calculated, effective approach to truly succeed at making the world a better place.