American novelist, philanthropist, and Giving Pledge signatory
Giving USA 2026 reports 2025 philanthropy at a record $617 billion, up 3% in inflation-adjusted terms. Bequests and megagifts from a handful of ultra-wealthy donors drive the rise, with MacKenzie Scott contributing about a third of megagift dollars and Warren Buffett, Bill Gates and Michael Bloomberg among top benefactors. The stock market boom underpins broader giving across individuals, foundations, and corporations.
A wave of AI coverage shows leaders warn momentum is unstoppable while calling for cross‑industry safety checks. Musk predicts rapid gains and a future of abundance; others push for collaboration and stronger safeguards as deployment accelerates.