Critiquing Effective Altruism (with Michael Nielsen and Ajeya Cotra)

Aug 19, 2022

Ajeya Cotra, a Senior Research Analyst at Open Philanthropy focused on AI risks, discusses the strengths and critiques of Effective Altruism (EA). Alongside Michael Nielsen, an author known for his work on open science, they explore how the movement balances altruism and personal impact. They challenge the assumption that donors prioritize effectiveness, debate centralization vs. decentralization in resources, and unravel the complexities of moral dilemmas in charitable giving. Their candid conversation encourages rethinking how we allocate resources for maximum good.

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INSIGHT

EA's Focus

Effective altruism (EA) is about figuring out how to do the most good with your resources.
It's distinct from the moral question of how many resources to devote to altruism.

INSIGHT

Three Parts of EA

EA has three components: the intellectual project, the personal decision of resource allocation, and the community.
These components influence individual involvement and organizational strategies.

INSIGHT

Attraction of Demanding Ideologies

Demanding ideologies are attractive, especially to certain personality types.
Michael Nielsen questions how to make the cut between altruism and personal life.

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The Most Good You Can Do

Peter Singer

Peter Singer's "The Most Good You Can Do" explores the concept of effective altruism, urging readers to maximize their positive impact on the world. He argues for a rational and evidence-based approach to philanthropy, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and measurable results. The book examines various charitable causes, analyzing their impact and suggesting ways to donate effectively. Singer challenges conventional notions of charity, encouraging readers to consider the potential to save lives and alleviate suffering on a global scale. He provides practical guidance on how individuals can make a significant difference through their donations.

The life you can save

How to Play Your Part in Ending World Poverty

Peter Singer

Peter Singer's "The Life You Can Save" is a compelling argument for effective altruism, urging readers to donate to charities that demonstrably alleviate suffering. Singer challenges conventional thinking about philanthropy, emphasizing the moral obligation to maximize the positive impact of our donations. The book presents a practical framework for identifying and supporting high-impact charities, focusing on cost-effectiveness and measurable results. Singer's work has sparked significant debate and inspired many to re-evaluate their charitable giving. The book's core message is that even small contributions can make a substantial difference in the lives of others.

Seeing Like a State

How Certain Schemes to Improve the Human Condition Have Failed

James C. Scott

In this book, James C. Scott examines the failures of centrally managed social plans and the destructive consequences of high-modernist ideologies. Scott argues that states often impose simplistic visions on complex societies, ignoring local, practical knowledge and leading to disastrous outcomes. He identifies four conditions common to all planning disasters: administrative ordering of nature and society, high-modernist ideology, authoritarian state power, and a prostrate civil society. The book critiques various utopian projects, including collective farms, compulsory villagization, and urban planning, and advocates for a more nuanced approach that respects local diversity and practical knowledge.