1. To emphasize the equal importance of poverty alleviation at both spiritual and material levels. Spiritual poverty is a widespread phenomenon in today's society and to some extent a cause of material poverty. New philanthropy is committed to harmonious development and the unity of material needs and spiritual pursuits. Volunteerism and social entrepreneurship are two main concepts that new philanthropy advocates.

2. Stress the systematic belief that man is an integral part of nature. In addressing poverty and other social problems, particular attention is given to the relationships between human beings, between individual human beings and society and between human beings and nature in order to realize sustainable social development and philanthropy.

3. “Passing on love and compassion” is a permanent theme of philanthropy. Philanthropy is not simply a give-and-take business. It calls for emotional input, the transmission of love and compasssion, rebuilding of dignity, empowerment and public participation. New philanthropy aims at effecting positive social change in its processes and outcomes.