Ethical–Historical Overview of Charity Activities

Janez Drobnič

Ethical–Historical Overview of Charity Activities

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62983/rn2865.24a.2

Key words: charity, Christian communities, ethics and morals, volunteers, non-governmental organizations

Abstract:
The innovativeness of practices in charitable activities can be a driving force for development, but it can also lead to opacity and controversial actions. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the background of charity, especially the ethical and moral foundations throughout its historical development, in order to find better ways into the future. The article provides an overview of the development of charity organizations and explores which ethical elements can be recognized among them. In the first periods of Christian communities, we have identified the selfless and dedicated action of the individual for vulnerable or needy fellow human beings within the framework of the ethics of mercy, while further historical periods recognize the altruistic concept of helping others and striving for community. In the more recent era of individualism and secularism, which offers and practises many innovations, however, it is manifested in a kind of balancing relationship of cooperation between those who help (volunteers) and those who need help.

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