--- title: "Recommended Books - \"The Paradox of Generosity\" by Christian Smith & Hilary Davidson" description: "Recommended Books - \"The Paradox of Generosity\" by Christian Smith & Hilary Davidson" --- [![Main-Logo-01-1](https://blog.thebusinessofgood.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Main-Logo-01-1.png?width=250&height=43&name=Main-Logo-01-1.png "Main-Logo-01-1")](https://www.thebusinessofgood.org) # Tim McCarthy and the Business of Good ## [Recommended Books - "The Paradox of Generosity" by Christian Smith & Hilary Davidson](https://blog.thebusinessofgood.org/articles/recommended-books-the-paradox-of-generosity-by-christian-smith-hilary-davidson) ** Jul 31, 2014 2:17:00 PM / by [Tim McCarthy](https://blog.thebusinessofgood.org/author/tim-mccarthy) ![](https://blog.thebusinessofgood.org/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/paradox-2.jpg)Editor's Note: *The Paradox of Generosity is a compelling and well-researched book that argues that the regular practice of being generous with our money, time, and relationships enhances happiness. * Excerpt: "Generosity is paradoxical. Those who give, receive back in turn. By spending ourselves for others' well-being, we enhance our own standing. In letting go of some of what we own, we better secure our own lives. By giving ourselves away, we ourselves move towards flourishing. This is not only a philosophical or religious teaching; it is a sociological fact." 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