Asking for money Quote by Judith Martin
““But why bother with guests at all? The virtual community is larger and less trouble than the relatives and friends upon whom self-fundraisers had been drawing. The pioneers in using the Internet to ask strangers for money patterned themselves on the causes of reputable charity—such as donating toward education or helping the ill—except for designating themselves the sole beneficiaries. A breakthrough was achieved when it was discovered that asking for money for luxuries also brought results. These practices are no less vulgar for having become commonplace. There is no polite way to tell people to give you money or objects, and no polite way to entertain people at their expense. Begging is the last resort of the desperate, not a social form requiring others to help people live beyond their means.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Rise of Online Crowdfunding, 2010s
Critiques the ethics of soliciting money from strangers online, likening it to vulgar begging and questioning its social acceptability.
In simple terms: Online begging feels impolite and exploitative.
Key Takeaway
Consider the impact of asking for money publicly.
Themes
ethics
online culture
charity
social norms
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- personal fundraising
- charitable campaigns
- social media requests
- non‑profit appeals
Key Concepts
crowdfunding
exploitation
social exchange
Questions to Reflect On
- Is all online fundraising inherently unethical?
- How can transparency improve perception?
A Different Perspective
May overlook genuine need and community support.
