Business ethics Journal
First) Listen to this podcast discussion with Larry Temkin on our obligations to the needy: https://philosophybites.com/2018/04/larry-temkin-on-obligations-to-the-needy.html
Second) Reflect on Peter Singer’s Argument
Suffering and death from lack of food, shelter, and medical care are bad.
If it is within our power to prevent something bad from happening without sacrificing anything nearly as important, it is wrong not to do so.
By donating to aid agencies we can prevent something bad from happening without sacrificing anything nearly as important.
Therefore, if you do not donate to aid agencies, you are doing something wrong.
Third) You’ve now heard a variety of perspectives on Singer’s argument and I’m sure you’ve formed a perspective about whether you agree or disagree with Singer. In between 600-750 words, say whether you agree or disagree with Peter Singer and why. If you disagree with him, identify which premises you find most problematic and why. Maybe you find his thought experiment unconvincing, you can discuss that as well. If you agree with him, by now you’ve heard a number of objections to his position – try to respond to the objections you find most troubling. Maybe you’ve modified his thought experiment to make it more convincing. Whatever you think about Singer’s argument, I want to hear your point of view and your reasoning. Remember, your reasoning is the important thing here, so be as clear as you possibly can in spelling out your argument!
