G.I. looking for Philanthropy Officer: to bring money in, not give it out

by David Safier

Goldwater Institute does few things as well as turning the meaning of words inside out.

Prime example: Matthew Ladner's contention that Bus drivers are Bureaucrats.

That one is infuriating at the same time it's amusing. But this one is just funny.

G.I. posted a job opening for a Philanthropy Officer.

To figure out good ways to give money away? Don't be silly! It's to figure out ways to bring in more money for G.I.

The Philanthropy Officer is responsible for working with the development team and development consultants in developing and implementing ongoing fundraising initiatives in support of the Institute’s mission. Elements of the Institute’s annual campaign include major donor initiatives, direct response programs, events, foundations, corporate giving, planned giving, and donor relationships.  This position reports to the Director of Philanthropy.

It looks like the position of Director of Philanthropy is new as well. That's two new salaries for the purpose of generating more funds so the Institute can do even more damage while it pays its top employees even higher salaries.

Ladner "proved" to me that bus drivers are bureaucrats by citing online dictionary definitions. So let's look at the some of the meanings of "philanthropy," shall we?

The word literally means love — philo — for humankind — anthropos.

Clearly, G.I. hearts itself, not humankind.

(G.I.: "Hey, we're human, aren't we?" I guess, but just barely.)

The standard definition of philanthropy is, "the practice of performing charitable or benevolent actions."

Put the two together, and you get this definition: "love for mankind, usually as shown by money given to, or work done for, other people."

In typical conservative fashion, G.I. has twisted "philanthropy" to mean getting others to give them money — by showing the others how hard G.I. will work to enlarge the donors' wallets.

The conservative motto: You help me, and I'll help you. Screw the rest of them.