What we don't owe the future

Longtermism is a fantasy

‘Longtermism’ and ‘Effective Altruism’ have become buzzwords within certain circles. While concern for future people sounds morally intuitive, nothing concrete is being offered by those who claim we should care for the distant future, writes Ben Chugg.

 

 

In the 1970s, the philosopher Peter Singer catalyzed a moral revolution by arguing that we should do more to help the global poor. His essay, Famine, Affluence, and Morality, argued that distance should not affect our moral decision-making. A malaria stricken child is equally deserving of our attention whether they are our next-door neighbors or 20,000 kilometers away.

How To Choose Your Dream Job Like an Effective Altruist SUGGESTED READING How To Choose Your Dream Job Like an Effective Altruist By William MacAskill

Continue reading

Enjoy unlimited access to the world's leading thinkers.

Start by exploring our subscription options or joining our mailing list today.

Start Free Trial

Already a subscriber? Log in

Latest Releases
Join the conversation