[psd1]

Alternative conjecture.

People give more consistently in more pro-social societies. But those societies are poorer, with lower percentage of computer ownership and programming skills. So they give things like care and food.

Trying to spin the west as the place where altruism is most prevalent seems incorrect. More data needed.

[blackhawkC17]

I think we're in agreement here. I never said the West inherently has more altruism. However, the West's high GDP is what enables Westerners to give more to free computing/internet-related projects offering excellent value.

Without a high GDP, there won't be much to give in the first place.

[psd1]

Yes, I suspect I've made a distinction without a difference. You're right.