Philanthropy is a form of altruism that consists of "private initiatives for the public good, focusing on quality of life". Philanthropy tends to be used interchangeably with the term charity. Charity has been noted in Egypt, centuries before the Christian era, with having religious origins. Philanthropy contrasts with business initiatives, which are private initiatives for private good, focusing on material gain; and with government endeavors that are public initiatives for public good, such as those that focus on the provision of public services. Present day philanthropy has evolved into providing long-term aid and change, rather than immediate relief. A person who practices philanthropy is a philanthropist.
