What role does evidence and research play in the decision-making process of effective altruists?

Effective altruism is a social movement and philosophical approach that uses evidence and research to figure out how we can benefit others as much as possible and take action on that basis. This process is crucial to ensuring that resources—be it time, money, or effort—are used as efficiently

Are there specific historical or philosophical texts in Eastern cultures that shape their views on altruism compared to those in Western cultures?

Altruism, the selfless concern for the well-being of others, has been a fundamental concept in various cultures across the globe. While both Eastern and Western societies cherish altruism, their philosophies and historical contexts shape their unique interpretations and practices. This article delves into the specific historical and philosophical texts in

What are the core principles of Buddhism and how do they shape its view of the 'self'?

Buddhism, one of the world's oldest religious traditions, offers profound insights regarding human existence and the nature of self. Rooted in the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, or the Buddha, it provides a framework for understanding life's suffering and the path to enlightenment. In this article, we&

In what ways does collectivism shape individual behavior in terms of community and family responsibilities?

In many cultures around the world, the concept of collectivism plays a fundamental role in shaping the behaviors and responsibilities of individuals within their communities and families. Simply put, collectivism emphasizes the importance of groups over individual members, fostering a sense of unity, mutual support, and shared responsibilities. To understand

What are the main elements of Maslow's hierarchy of needs in relation to the self?

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory proposed by Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper "A Theory of Human Motivation." This theory is fundamental in the fields of psychology and human motivation, and it remains an essential framework for understanding human behavior and personal development.

How does deontological ethics define duty?

Deontological ethics, often associated with the work of the German philosopher Immanuel Kant, is a prominent ethical theory focusing on the concept of duty. Unlike other ethical theories that may prioritize outcomes or consequences, deontological ethics places a strong emphasis on the morality of actions themselves. This article will take

Can you provide an example where deontological ethics might struggle with conflicting duties?

Deontological ethics, derived from the Greek word "deon" meaning duty, focuses on adherence to rules or duties. This ethical framework asserts that actions are morally obligatory, permissible, or forbidden based on adherence to certain rules, rather than the consequences of actions. Immanuel Kant, a prominent figure in deontological

How does the theory of change framework assist in measuring impact?

In today's rapidly evolving world, evaluating the impact of various projects and initiatives has become more crucial than ever. The Theory of Change (ToC) framework is a powerful tool used extensively by organizations to understand and measure their impact. By providing a detailed roadmap of how intended outcomes

What ethical considerations come into play when evaluating the impact of causes in developing vs. developed countries?

Evaluating the impact of causes in developing versus developed countries is a complex process fraught with numerous ethical considerations. These considerations range from equity and justice to cultural sensitivity and economic disparities. This article aims to shed light on the multifaceted ethical dimensions that must be navigated to make fair

What role does scalability play in assessing the cost-effectiveness of an intervention?

Assessing the cost-effectiveness of an intervention is crucial for making informed decisions about resource allocation, especially in fields such as healthcare, education, and public policy. One key factor in this assessment is scalability. So, what is scalability, and why is it so fundamental in evaluating the cost-effectiveness of interventions? This

How does deontological ethics differ from consequentialism in handling conflicting duties?

In the realm of moral philosophy, two prominent ethical frameworks often stand in stark contrast: deontological ethics and consequentialism. Both seek to provide guidelines for moral behavior but approach the resolution of ethical dilemmas, including conflicts of duty, quite differently. This article provides a detailed yet easy-to-understand comparison of how

What are the common metrics used to measure cost-effectiveness across various causes?

Introduction Cost-effectiveness is a critical criterion when evaluating different projects, programs, or interventions across various causes. Whether in healthcare, education, non-profit organizations, or business, understanding how to measure and maximize cost-effectiveness can significantly impact outcomes. This article delves into the common metrics used to measure cost-effectiveness, explaining the intricacies of