Giving in America.

• Author: Slade, Stephanie
• Position: EXHIBIT - Brief article

Assistance for the poor, scientific research, arts and culture--many wonder how we can be sure markets, absent government compulsion, would provide these critical social goods. Behind a glass case at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C, sits the answer: a long tradition of private individuals sharing what they have.

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The small permanent exhibit, titled "Giving in America," showcases a few odd objects that make its point, including a rubber pail representing the "ice bucket challenge," a 2014 viral campaign that raised $115 million for a cure to Lou Gehrig's disease. Also displayed are pledge letters from...