Zach Rhoads
Zach Rhoads
MINISODE: Peter Singer: Shallow Pond
MINISODE: Peter Singer: Shallow Pond
MINISODE: Peter Singer: Shallow Pond
Saturday 15th September 2018
Philosopher Peter Singer discusses the shallow pond analogy and our moral obligation to help those in extreme poverty on 'The Social Exchange'.
8 minutes
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Get the buttons here!Peter Singer on Moral Duty: The Shallow Pond Thought Experiment
If we agree that it would be wrong- not just not very nice, but actually wrong- to walk past the child and leave the child to drown, then what can you say about our conduct if we know that we can save the lives of children in developing countries?
Imagine walking past a pond and spotting a child struggling in the water. Would you jump in to save them, even if it meant ruining your clothes or being late for an important meeting? In this thought-provoking episode of 'The Social Exchange', host Zach Rhoads sits down with renowned philosopher Peter Singer to discuss his famous shallow pond analogy and its implications for our moral responsibilities.
Singer argues that just as we would instinctively rescue a drowning child, we should also feel a moral obligation to help those living in extreme poverty, even if it requires some personal sacrifice. Singer's analogy is more than just a hypothetical scenario; it serves as a powerful call to action for effective altruism.
He suggests that if we can make a significant difference in someone's life with minimal effort or cost to ourselves, then we are morally obligated to do so. The conversation dives into the psychological barriers that prevent us from extending this same urgency to global poverty. Singer acknowledges that while it's easier to act when the need is right in front of us, our moral duty doesn't diminish just because the suffering is far away.
The episode also tackles common objections to Singer's argument. Some people worry about the effectiveness of their donations, fearing that their money might get lost in bureaucratic red tape. Singer addresses these concerns by pointing out that there are reputable organizations that rigorously evaluate charities, ensuring that donations are used effectively to save lives and alleviate suffering.
This episode isn't just for philosophers or ethicists; it's for anyone who has ever questioned their role in making the world a better place. Whether you're already involved in charitable activities or just starting to think about your impact, Singer's insights offer valuable perspectives on how we can all contribute to reducing global poverty. Tune in to hear a compelling discussion that challenges us to reconsider our everyday choices and their broader implications.