Philanthropy

In this series, Simon Evans examines the concept of the 'free lunch' and shines a light on new ways of making money in the 21st century.

There are many apparently 'free' economic models operating today but what are they and how do they work? Across four episodes Simon and his team will explore Social Media and how we often appear to enjoy it for free. Later on Simon examines the perhaps unfair belief that some multinationals appear to operate tax free. And what about the billions being given away 'for free' by a new breed of philanthro-capitalists? Finally, what can we learn from these operating models to help that beloved yet creaking institution, the NHS, which is also apparently free at the point of use?

As a wise person once said, there's no such thing as a free lunch. If you're not paying, you're the product.

Also featuring Financial Times economics god Tim Harford and Timandra Harkness, author of 'Big Data: Does Size Matter?' with contributions from the Queen of MoneyWeek, Merryn Somerset Webb.

Episode 3: Philanthropy

There comes a point in every busy tycoon's life when he or she realises that accruing vast wealth, power and prestige has not brought with it the warm glow they had hoped for. The solution was suggested several hundred years ago, most notably by the Earl of Shaftesbury - philanthropy. Literally - the love of what it is to be human - but more usually meant as, charity, but on a large scale and with your name over the door. But is it as economically straightforward as it seems?

Starring: Simon Evans with Tim Harford and Timandra Harkness
Written by Simon Evans with Benjamin Partridge
Researcher: Andrew Wright
Production coordinator: Toby Tilling

Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production.