Investment guru Warren Buffett is not the world's richest man but surprisingly, he is once again listed as second-richest. Why? Because, in recent years, Mr Buffett has become as famous for giving away his money as he is for making it. Following in the footsteps of great American philanthropists such as Andrew Carnegie, John D Rockerfeller and his own good friend, Bill Gates (who is No. 1 on the rich list), Mr Buffet supports good causes around the world.
The concept of giving runs like a golden thread through many cultures, though wealthy Americans sometimes get more good press for their generosity than other good Samaritans. Zakat (charity) is a pillar of Islam, and is reflected in the large amounts donated by the UAE leadership to various causes, ranging from polio eradication to disaster relief. Many Emiratis quietly give away vast sums as well. Modesty and reticence are virtues but sometimes it pays to speak up. All in a good cause.
