benevolencewhose

Benevolencewhose is a neologism used in ethical and social theory to describe a form of benevolence that centers the recipient’s perspective and consent rather than the donor’s intentions alone. It emphasizes that the direction, scope, and methods of benevolent action should be determined by the needs, priorities, and values of those who receive aid, and that those parameters can shift over time.

Origin and usage: The term blends benevolence with whose to foreground relational agency. It originated in contemporary discussions of charity, mutual aid, and care ethics, and has appeared in multiple scholarly and public debates without a single canonical author.

Concept and applications: In practice, benevolencewhose invites recipients to participate in decision-making about what aid is provided and how it is delivered. Proponents argue this reduces paternalism, improves legitimacy, and enhances accountability. Critics worry that the concept can complicate rapid response and risk co-opting recipient voices in ways that bypass expertise.

Relationship to other ideas: It relates to care ethics, relational autonomy, participatory governance, beneficence, and altruism, serving as a bridge between donor-centered philanthropy and recipient-led mutual aid.

See also: charity, mutual aid, care ethics, relational autonomy.