Questions About Doing Good Better: How Effective Altruism Can Help You Make a Difference

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Answered Questions (3)

Does the author mention charitable causes that benefit the environment, nature, or animals?

Zack Yes, all three–author is a vegetarian (staunchly opposed to factory farming) and believes climate change to be a pressing issue.

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What will I do differently after I read this book or what will it tell me that another philanthropy will not? Thanks, Sandra

Zack The main takeaways:
- It's important to use evidence and reason when evaluating the impact you can do, both in terms of donations and using your career…moreThe main takeaways:
- It's important to use evidence and reason when evaluating the impact you can do, both in terms of donations and using your career to make a difference
- The most effective interventions are the most surprising. For instance, the author claims that it is more effective to work in e.g. management consulting early in your career (donating the huge salary you're making) than to work for a non-profit.
- It's important to be pragmatic about doing good–keeping yourself surrounded with like-minded people, doing a job you enjoy, etc.

All in all, it's a unique viewpoint on doing good in the world–very different from a lot of other arguments.(less)

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Hi dear Altruists Is this a book that will not only show me how to do good but that also motivates me to do good? Or would you suggest other "starter-altruist books" that convince people to do good?

Chanelle This book will give you lots of well-researched data and stats - many of which run counter to commonly held beliefs. If you're like me you'll find you…moreThis book will give you lots of well-researched data and stats - many of which run counter to commonly held beliefs. If you're like me you'll find yourself skipping past some of the calculations, but spending lots of time digging into the recommended organizations. I finished reading it feeling much more informed and motivated to change my giving habits and make adjustments to my lifestyle. If you're especially interested in Effective Altruism, I'd recommend participating in one of the organization's free online programs. I'm in the introductory course (5 weeks completed so far of 8) and really enjoying it. (less)

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