publication

The relationship between AI and philanthropy from historical roots to modern convergence

Authors:
Camilla Caroline Mebahel DELLA GIOVAMPAOLA
Maria Cristiana TUDOR
2024

Despite the criticisms that have been directed toward philanthropies for their low engagement with artificial intelligence (AI), the two have been engaging with one another for more than half a decade. This chapter explores the relationship between AI and philanthropy over time, starting from the mid-1950s to the present day. In doing so, it highlights the evolving nature of philanthropic approaches, from traditional philanthropic activities that initially supported AI research to the rise of new, hybrid forms of tech-industry-led philanthropic endeavors that are emerging today. It then approaches technology’s impact on the philanthropic sector, highlighting many of the key opportunities and challenges, and dives into the emerging phenomenon of “Data Philanthropy.” This allows us to outline multiple elements that contribute to the uneven adoption of AI by POs, and the overall low level of digitalization. Lastly, it presents the AI for Social Good (AI4SG) movement, a staple contemporary representation of the intersection between AI and philanthropy. The latter section maps key stakeholder dynamics to emphasize the importance of cross-sector partnerships, followed by prominent modern applications and concludes with guiding principles for deploying ethical and successful AI4SG projects. Overall, by providing an overview narrative of the intersection of AI and philanthropy, this chapter sets out to reinforce our understanding of the history between the sectors to better understand its current status and shape its future trajectory.