Thoreau’s claim that philanthropy is “overrated” is clear when he goes on to state “it is our selfishness which overrates it.” (Thoreau, 1962, p. 170). The meaning of philanthropy in itself, during the Socrates era may have been true to its Greek etymological meaning of “love of humanity”, but as Thoreau expresses, “his goodness must not be a partial and transitory act, but a constant superfluity, which costs him nothing and of which he is unconscious” (Thoreau, 1962, p. 171) clearly express how when we attempt to do good for the sake of others, it should not be to elevate ourselves or intend to acquire status. I agree on Thoreau’s points by which when one practices the worship of fasting, or volunteers their time and services, they should