Giving and Religiosity: the Portuguese Perspective

• In Event: Enduring Influences on Philanthropy

Abstract

This paper discusses the driving mechanisms of religiosity in terms of donations practices, and donor choice in giving either to religious organizations or secular organizations in Portugal.
Based on a survey of Portuguese charities, 612 donors reported their preferences when giving.
Being religious affiliated, and displaying a high level of religiosity has been identified as a determinant of giving and giving high amounts. Moreover, donor choice in giving either to religious organizations or secular organizations has been found to be an important factor for secular people, whereas religious people tend to give to any kind of organization.

Authors

• Madalena Eça Abreu, ISCTE-IUL, University Institute of Lisbon (BRU-IUL), Portugal

• Raul M. S. Laureano, Instituto Universitrio de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), BRU, Lisboa, Portugal

• Rui Vinhas da Silva, Instituto Universitrio de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), BRU, Lisboa, Portugal