The most good you can do
Reg Naulty welcomes a provocative argument by a leading philosopher
The intent behind The Most Good You Can Do: How Effective Altruism Is Changing Ideas About Living Ethically, by the controversial philosopher Peter Singer, is deeply constructive. It is arguing for a new ethical ideal: that people do the most good they can. The book is directed particularly at giving, such as to charities, most of which is emotion driven. Singer argues that if it were more thoughtful, it would be more effective. So, we should check up on our charities. When people do that now, they usually enquire about what percentage of their gift goes to administration and what percentage to the ultimate recipient. But the really important question is how effective are the funds that get to the end of the line.
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