Charity Can Really Make You Rich

When we say giving is its own reward we don’t mean financial reward, but that’s just what research is pointing out.

“Emerging evidence,” says economist Arthur C. Brooks, "crunchy statistics from real data, not the mushy self-help stuff—supports the contention that giving stimulates prosperity, for both individuals and nations. Charity, it appears, can really make you rich.”

In fact, says Brooks, research data shows this: “More giving doesn't just correlate with higher income; it causes higher income.”

If you missed him on this weekend's (excellent) Marketplace report (American Public Media) read Brooks' "Giving Makes You Rich" (Conde Nast Portfolio.com, November 2007).

Food for thought in this season of giving.