A doctrine popularized in the late 19th century articulated the responsibility of the wealthy to utilize their fortunes for the betterment of society. Proponents of this philosophy believed that those who accumulated significant wealth were obligated to engage in philanthropy, using their resources to address social problems. Andrew Carnegie, a prominent industrialist, exemplified this concept through his extensive donations to establish libraries and educational institutions.
This tenet served as a justification for vast accumulations of capital during the Gilded Age, mitigating criticism of the disparities in wealth. By framing wealth as a tool for social progress, proponents aimed to legitimize the economic system and encourage the wealthy to invest in projects that would benefit the broader population. This approach was often contrasted with other potential uses of wealth, such as extravagant personal consumption or leaving vast inheritances to future generations.