Extract

Books about the various Rockefeller philanthropies tend to take one of two tacks: either they see the foundations as totally altruistic organizations that are in operation only to help humanity or they see the foundations as instruments of imperialism or capitalist development. This has been particularly true for stories of Rockefeller funded international health work as that activity, more than any other, can be seen through either lens. What distinguishes the Farley book from others is its attempt to ignore these dichotomous views and concentrate solely on the outcomes of projects and the interpersonal dynamics between central office and field staff.

In this endeavour it succeeds quite well. It is well researched, highly readable, and even witty at times. To be sure, the conquest of infectious disease makes for a good story and while it is easy to get lost in the names and the places, the results speak for themselves.

You do not currently have access to this article.