The Singer Solution to World Poverty

Singer insists that his formula for calculating an ethically appropriate level of donations is simple: Just subtract money spent on necessities from total earnings and donate the rest. Can this simple distinction between luxury and necessity readily apply to the real world? For instance, if one must maximize donations, must one also reduce one’s standard of living to save even more money? Write an essay problematizing Singer’s simple formula, suggesting potential revisions or qualifications.

Singer’s forward tone, while engaging, borders on arrogant or manipulative. Given Singer’s likely target audience, is his tone more likely to win his position more support (and push readers to action) or to make readers defensive and wary? Support your analysis with textual examples.

Singer compares those who fail to donate aid to Germans who witnessed Nazi atrocities but failed to resist them. Is this a fair comparison? Why or why not? Are there ethical differences between the two situations?

How does Singer address potential counterarguments? What reasoning and evidence does he use? Are there objections he hasn’t addressed?

Singer claims that a person’s moral responsibility to another person does not depend on physical or emotional proximity. Not all philosophers agree. Research at least one philosopher with a differing viewpoint, and write an essay considering that alternate view. How does it change a wealthy individual’s moral responsibility to the global poor?