Who gives?

This is the time of year we are urged by countless people and organizations to give to those who are less fortunate. Indeed, generosity is one of the hallmarks of the American culture, and we are high upon the list of countries who help others. The question occurs, however, what segment of the population is likely to give the most.

Sociologist Robert Putnam has researched this question, particularly among Christian churches and has analyzes the data in his book, "American Grace."
He has found that among Christians, conservative Christians donate the most to charity. This includes formal churches such as Southern Baptists, American Baptist, Church of Christ, Missouri Synod Lutheran, and non-denominational community churces. While charitable, more liberal churches, theologically, donate less. This includes churches such as United Methodist, Episcopalian, Presbyterian, and Unitarian.

However, most Christian churches in the U.S. are vrey aggressive in reaching out in times of calamity to help others. This is important because there is a trend for the government to be less helpful than it once was in responding to human need.