Evergetism

Evergetism is a term coined by French historian A Boulanger, it derives directly from Greek εύεργετέω meaning « I do good things ». It is the practice of notables to distribute a part of their wealth to the community of the "hoi polloi", rather than to individuals (clientelism).

Hellenistic Generosity

This social practice appeared in the hellenistic world, and soon became a moral obligation for wealthy people, especially when seeking high magistrate charges, such as Consul or Aedile. Benefits included not only Panis et circenses, but also public buildings and roads which bore the inscription D.S.P.F. ("De Sua Pecunia Fecit", « Done with His Own Money ») along with the name of the donator.

End of Evergetism

From the 3rd century AD, economic pressure made evergetism more difficult to practice, and it eventually disappeared with Justinian, being later replaced by the churches redistribution action.

References

* Paul Veyne, "Le pain et le cirque. Sociologie historique d'un pluralisme politique", coll. Point Histoire, Editions du Seuil, 1976.
* Christina Kokkinia: "Die Opramoas-Inschrift von Rhodiapolis. Euergetismus und soziale Elite in Lykien." Habelt, Bonn, 2000, ISBN 3-7749-2970-X.
* Ruurd R. Nauta: "Poetry for Patrons: Literary Communication in the Age of Domitian." Leiden/Boston/Köln: Brill, 2002, S. 328ff. (Mnemosyne Supplementum 206).