Lecture Notes on Effective Altruism

Introduction

• Presenter: Joseph Geni
• Focus on moral responsibility and philanthropy.

Case Study: Wang Yue

• Footage of a two-year-old girl, Wang Yue, hit by a van.
• Passersby ignored her; she ultimately died from injuries.
• Raises questions about moral obligation to help others.

Statistics on Child Mortality

• UNICEF reports 6.9 million children under five died from preventable diseases in 2011.
• Down from 12 million in 1990; still approximately 19,000 children die daily.
• Distance and nationality should not diminish our moral responsibility.

The Imperative of Action

• We can reduce the death toll through effective contributions.
• Many spend on unnecessary items; money can be redirected to effective charities.
• Example: Against Malaria Foundation uses funds to buy protective nets.

Effective Altruism Movement

• Combines emotional empathy with rational decision-making.
• Acknowledges shared humanity; suffering is universal.
• Notable figures: Bill & Melinda Gates, Warren Buffett—highly effective philanthropists.

Philanthropic Examples

• Gates Foundation saves millions of lives through effective charity.
• Toby Ord's example: calculated potential to cure 80,000 blind individuals with a pledge of 10% of income.
  • Founded Giving What We Can to promote this idea.

Career Choices and Impact

• Will Crouch's platform, 80,000 Hours, advises on impactful career choices.
• Suggests finance/banking careers can maximize charitable contributions.
• Example: Matt Weiger, a finance professional contributing significantly to charities.

Evaluating Charities

• Importance of finding effective charities; some are vastly more effective than others.
• Example: Cost of training a guide dog vs. curing trachoma-induced blindness.
• Recommended resources for effective charity: GiveWell, The Life You Can Save, Effective Animal Activism.

Addressing Concerns About Giving

• Some view giving as a burden; it can be fulfilling.
• Charlie Bresler's perspective: saving lives enriches one's own life.
• Personal stories demonstrating fulfillment from effective altruism.

Conclusion: Finding Meaning in Altruism

• Effective altruism can provide meaning and satisfaction.
• Personal anecdote: Chris Croy anonymously donated a kidney, influencing others to act.
• Encouragement to contribute, whether through direct action or financial support.

Final Thoughts

• Altruism can provide a sense of purpose contrary to consumerism.
• Everyone can play a part in reducing suffering and improving lives.