EconTalk Peter Singer on The Life You Can Save
Feb 17, 2020
Peter Singer, a renowned bioethicist from Princeton University and author of "The Life You Can Save," discusses the moral responsibilities of those in affluent societies. He argues for the necessity of giving up luxuries to combat global poverty. The conversation delves into the ethics of saving lives, the challenges of effective altruism, and the importance of impactful charitable giving. They also touch on immigration's role in poverty alleviation and the dual nature of tribalism in fostering community or exclusion.
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Drowning Child Dilemma
- A man in a suit encounters a drowning child but hesitates to rescue them due to his expensive clothes.
- This illustrates the moral dilemma of prioritizing material possessions over a stranger's life.
Moral Obligation
- Peter Singer argues that preventing bad things, like a child's death, is a moral imperative.
- This applies even when it requires a small personal sacrifice, as the bad outweighs the cost.
Altruism vs. Self-Interest
- Russ Roberts challenges the basis of altruism, questioning if caring for others stems from genuine concern or self-interest.
- He cites Adam Smith's theory of moral sentiments, where benevolence stems from a desire for respect.
