The way I see it, you spend your younger years earning money. You don't necessarily need to give any of it away during this phase. As you get to the point where you have made your money, you usually look back with some fondness on the industry, friends, associates, etc. that helped you get where you are. At this point, if you can afford it, it is quite proper to give donations to help those who may be starting out (in your chosen field) and also to charities that you find worthwhile. If you are among the Buffetts or the Gates' of the world, you can expand your giving accordingly.

I am in what I call my exit strategy, just trying to make my money and my life run out at the same time. (If I can live until next Tuesday, I have it made.) I have found that putting back into the industry that provided my livelyhood is quite satisfying. I've also found that there are some charities who do good work (mostly for the unfortunate) and don't pocket most of the money, and I prefer to donate what I feel I can to them.

There are those who may feel that, if you have it, you should share it. I don't particularly share that philosophy.

just my $.02,
Wes