Tax-exempt foundations grew substantially in the twentieth century, both in their financial importance and in the scope of their activities. This challenging book examines the economic, cultural, and intellectual implications of tax-exempt organizations. How do various tax laws influence foundations and what types of ideas do foundations produce? How do the activities of foundations relate to the interests and intentions of their founders? Does the economic management of foundation assets serve the public good, or would such assets be better employed through the private sector? Writing Off Ideas examines these and related questions primarily by looking at specific examples as well as the overall impact of foundation practices economically and socially.

Author Biography

Randall G. Holcombe is research fellow at the Independent Institute and DeVoe Moore Professor of Economics at Florida State University. He is author of twelve books and more than 100 articles published in academic and professional journals. His books include Writing Off Ideas: Taxation, Foundations, and Philanthropy in America, Public Policy and the Quality of Life, From Liberty to Democracy: Th e Transformation of American Government, and Entrepreneurship and Economic Progress.