euergetism means the practice of the ancient Greek and Roman elite of distributing a part of their wealth to the community; public benefaction. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 87 out of 100.
Why “euergetism” is a great word
EUERGETISM — [Noun] The practice in ancient Greek and Roman societies whereby wealthy elites voluntarily distributed wealth for public benefit to secure social prestige and political influence. From Ancient Greek εὐεργετέω (euergetéō, "to do good, to benefit") + the suffix -ism, denoting a practice or system. Unlike "philanthropy," a broad, often modern concept of disinterested charitable giving, or "liturgy," an ancient Athenian compulsory financial duty, euergetism was a voluntary yet socially obligatory transaction of civic munificence. It was the cool marble of a new bathhouse, the scent of roasting meat at a public feast for ten thousand, and the inscription carved deep in stone to ensure the gift outlasts the giver—a ritual exchange where public good was the currency, converting wealth into power and binding the city in a silent economy of gratitude and stone.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek εὐεργετέω (euergetéō, “to do good”) + -ism.
noun
- The practice of the ancient Greek and Roman elite of distributing a part of their wealth to the community; public benefaction.“Euergetism, as traditionally practised, might take the form of the construction of public buildings, the provision of public pleasures, the entertainment of the populace in circus or arena, or the provision of food in times of dearth...”