Numerous controversially conducted discussions about the growth of the wealthy class and debates on voluntary engagement in civil society sparked the impetus for this volume. From a social science perspective, two aspects are highlighted: the socio-structural significance of wealth—issues of distribution, classification, and demarcation concepts—as well as the civic engagement of affluent individuals. Special attention is given to the voluntary assumption of social responsibility, for example through philanthropy, and the underlying individual motivations for action. In this context, both the potentials and dangers for civil society, as well as the legitimization of wealth and inequality through philanthropy, are examined. The scholarly contributions include both national and international perspectives.