Traditions of mutual assistance as the foundation of charity in modern society

The scientific article examines charity as an important tool for solving social problems and developing society. The role of charity in modern society is explored, various aspects of charitable activity are considered, including the motivation of people to participate in it, forms of charity and its effectiveness. The work uses an integrated approach, combining analysis of theoretical sources and empirical research. The scientific article is based on data from a sociological study using a quantitative approach using a survey method in the form of a questionnaire to assess the attitude of the population of the Irkutsk region towards charity. The sample population consisted of 1 200 people living in the Irkutsk region. The article emphasizes that charity is an integral part of modern society and plays an important role in its development. It is noted that the effectiveness of charitable activities depends on many factors, such as the transparency of the work of charitable organizations, the level of public trust in them, as well as government support for charitable activities. In addition, the study found that traditions of mutual aid lay the foundation for sustainable and effective philanthropy. Particular attention in the article was paid to the influence of traditions of mutual assistance on the formation of a culture of charity. The authors identified two types of charity: «near» (helping relatives and friends) and «distant» (help through organizations and foundations). It was revealed that respondents are more willing to turn to relatives and friends for help than to charitable organizations. This is due to strong traditions of mutual aid, dating back to the archaic period of charity. Such traditions of mutual assistance, rooted in history and culture, serve as the foundation for «neighbor» charity. To increase the effectiveness of charitable activities, it is necessary not only to improve legislation in this area, increase the transparency of the work of charitable organizations, but also to develop a culture of charity.