Introduction to the Chapter

Contextual Background

In this chapter of "Post Capitalist Philanthropy," authors Alnoor Ladha and Lynn Murphy delve into the palpable tension and potential within our current socio-economic epoch. They highlight the existence of a paradoxical time where the neoliberal framework, with all its associated crises, exists alongside emergent post-capitalist alternatives. Within this tapestry, the authors engaged with various stakeholders—including philanthropists, movement leaders, and grassroots activists—to uncover a unifying sense of both alarming issues and hopeful possibilities.

Recognition of Bifurcation

The chapter acknowledges the harsh reality of the neoliberal desert: a landscape dominated by authoritarianism, xenophobia, and the other relentless consequences of neoliberal ideology. However, alongside this, there is a blossoming of alternative models and practices, creating a bifurcated context where the potential for radical change in philanthropy and broader social structures is increasingly possible.

Calls for Just Transition (JT)

JT Movement and Its Premise

The concept of the Just Transition (JT) is central to reimagining a future beyond the destructive tendencies of current systems. JT calls for a movement away from an exploitative and extractive paradigm to one that is regenerative, inclusive, and considerate of historical harms. This section explores how this translates to the realm of philanthropy, noting support for climate action, economic inclusion, and cultural sovereignty.

The Three Horizons Framework

To better understand and plan the transition, the authors introduce Bill Sharpe’s Three Horizons Framework. This model allows stakeholders to map change across different time periods, preserving valuable elements of the present while making space for innovative and emergent solutions. Horizon 1 represents sustaining the status quo; Horizon 2 stands for disruptive innovation that transitions us from the current model; and Horizon 3 denotes a vision for an unknown but hope-filled future.

Current Philanthropic Landscape

Intersection with JT Movement

The JT movement within philanthropy is scrutinized, with current efforts mainly inhabiting Horizon 1, advocating for reform without fundamentally challenging deep-seated systemic issues, such as the capitalist growth-debt model. The interventions often fall short by assuming a linear progression of time and progress, without an acknowledgment of non-linear and complex social change dynamics.

Critique of JT Assumptions

The authors criticize the JT framework's binary understanding of power dynamics—replacing elite control with community control—but argue that shifting power among groups does not address the enduring issue of power abuse. They also call into question the movement's reliance on persuading elites and reforming existing institutions, suggesting that this inadvertently reinforces the very structures it aims to dismantle.

Deeper Shifts Required

Redistribution as a First Step

While acknowledging redistribution of wealth and power as essential, the authors argue that it should not become the end goal. Too much focus on redistribution risks perpetuating the status quo, without addressing deeper cultural and systemic logics driving greed, exploitation, and domination.

Ontological Considerations

The authors signal that the next steps must involve an ontological shift—a change in how we perceive, relate to, and ethically engage with the world. This calls for a more nuanced approach to transforming philanthropy that aligns with post-capitalist principles, ultimately leading to "Justice Plus Onto-Shifts."

Reflection and Artistic Exploration

Contemplative Exercises

The chapter invites readers to reflect personally on wealth, power, and the nature of change. By framing wealth as a proxy for power, the authors challenge readers to consider their relationship with wealth, the compelling aspects of the JT movement, and the willingness to "make sacred" through sacrifice.

Visual Representation

Artwork by Federico Cruz and Alixa García is presented as a visual analogy for the chapter's themes, inviting the audience to consider forced migration in relation to broader onto-shifts and systemic changes.

Conclusion: Towards Justice Plus Onto-Shifts

Beyond JT

Reflecting on the limitations of the JT movement, the authors proffer an augmented vision: "Justice Plus Onto-Shifts," which expands upon JT by incorporating deeper ethical and ontological shifts. It advocates for an alignment with a diverse spectrum of approaches, including Indigenous, place-based, and animist worldviews that respect pluriverse approaches.

Philanthropic Transition Pathways

The chapter outlines structural shifts that mark the transition from current philanthropic practices (Horizon 1) to a just and post-capitalist reality (Horizons 2 and 3). Examples include participatory grantmaking, trust-based philanthropy, community sovereignty over resources, and integrated capital funds.

Embracing Onto-Shifts

The authors emphasize "onto-shifts" as necessary for this transformation, advocating for a movement away from monoculture, historical amnesia, separation, and unchecked orthodoxy, towards polyculture, memory and reconciliation, connectedness, and self-responsibility.

Final Exercises and Reflection

The chapter concludes with exercises encouraging readers to engage in practices that embody these onto-shifts. Through meditative contemplation, partnership, and interaction with artwork, the audience is invited to explore and internalize these emerging shifts in ontology and approach to justice and philanthropy.