"This book examines the evolution of the ideas and practices of benevolence, chiefly in the context of British imperialism, from the late eighteenth century to the present. The editors raise philosophical questions about the relationship between benevolence and self-interest, concluding that these concepts 'are not incompatible in the quest for a better world'. The collected essays cover more than a dozen examples of practical and theoretical benevolence, from the anti-slavery movement to modern activities such as refugee asylum, opposition to female genital mutilation and restoring the wetlands in post-Saddam Iraq. Of particular interest to Philanthropy UK readers will be Alan Lester's chapter on British humanitarianism and Sarah Richardson's chapter on women, philanthropy and imperialism in early nineteenth century Britain."—Beth Breeze, Publications Editor , Philanthropy UK Nwsltr, September 2008, Issue 34 "This book examines the evolution of the ideas and practices of benevolence, chiefly in the context of British imperialism, from the late eighteenth century to the present. . . . The collected essays cover more than a dozen examples of practical and theoretical benevolence, from the anti-slavery movement to modern activities such as refugee asylum, opposition to female genital mutilation and restoring the wetlands in post-Saddam Iraq.September 2008"—Beth Breeze, Publications Editor "...Burden or Benefit: Imperial Benevolence and Its Legacies will prove of interest to many students and scholars of British imperialism who will welcome this impressive work that reinterprets the complexities of the imperial past and sheds light on the present legacies.Jan. 2010"—Dr Andrew Diniejko, Warsaw University, Poland "A strong volume. . . . The book is accessible and will meet the needs of faculty who teach on empire, colonialism, philanthropy, charity, and related subjects."—Steven Heydemann, Georgetown University