Introduction
Thesis: In this paper, I will argue that the strategy of effective altruism, “Earning to Give” is not the right thing for individuals to base their career on as it can cause harm to themselves as well as to others.
Summary of Singer’s Views:
• As Singer has said, “Although it is possible to earn an average income and still donate enough to do a lot of good, it remains true that the more you earn, the more you can donate.” (Singer, 39)
• In the book, there are charities such as 80,000 hours who have displayed the theme of earning to give by helping people lead as many high impacted careers as possible in order to do the most good they can do.
• Peter Singer says that these individuals do not see it as a sacrifice but feel that what they are doing is making them feel good about themselves since they…show more content… (Tomasik, 1)
• If a person, who is earning to give, is unhappy with their career, they should not continue to pursue in that direction since it’s not effective to be able to help others while damaging your emotional wellbeing and lifestyle.
• “…the damage that could flow from turning yourself into a means for the redistribution of wealth, overlooking the fact that it is, unfortunately, the fate of many people to spend their lives supporting themselves and their families by doing work they do not find intrinsically interesting or enjoyable.” (Singer, 47)
Response One:
• By having a higher income, it will increase the percentage you are able to donate therefore making the most effective use of your earnings.
• Peter Singer suggests that if a person had to choose between employment with an investment bank or with a charity, the person should choose the higher paying income since an increase in a donation can widely benefit charities rather than your time as a charity