The article “Is it OK to make art?” was a very challenging and dreary piece of literature to read. In a sense, I do understand where the Effective Altruism is coming from. However, their rigid rules and disapproving opinions may turn away those who could have helped the world in someway, somehow.
The world is a beautiful yet terrible place, filled with countless problems that no one seems to be able to find the solutions for. The EAs’ basic belief is that in order to help those suffering in the world, you must work hard “to earn money” and then give “as much of it as you can to the needy.” I believe that this is a very good and simple way to give back. However, judging others for how much they can contribute monetarily to the world is a very captious action. Everyone comes from different socioeconomic backgrounds. One person giving all they can may be a fraction of what someone else may have to offer. The EA is trying to save the world but debates whether or not a deed is good enough or at high enough value to be worth doing. In my opinion, it does not matter what the deed is, as long as you are helping someone for an honest and just reason, then it is a good deed.
The Effective Altruism group is also very disapproving of those living lives that make themselves happy rather than those who help the suffering become more happy. The idea of making someone give up what “they love to do most” to help others around them is a very odd idea in my mind. I understand we are thinking bigger picture here, however, if you are not doing something you love then will you not live a life of suffering too? I also believe that the jobs the EA may not think are the most “moral things to do” have the power to help suffering people as much as “good deeds.” Art, for example, inspires people’s creativity, helps them overcome their mental health struggles, and gives new perspectives to those around it. The artist is happy doing the job they love while helping those suffering around them.
First of all, I adored your About Me page. I am inspired by how directly your family has impacted your career path. I also want to applaud your openness to trying out a new sport this year! This is an example of the growth mindset at work. I am so excited to have you in the classroom!
You’ve generated a lot of potentially useful sentences in the above exercise. I enjoyed reading your reflection. When you wrote: “The world is a beautiful yet terrible place, filled with countless problems that no one seems to be able to find the solutions for,” it made me realize that the EAs believe that they HAVE found the solution–and yet, it doesn’t seem quite right. Why do you think that is?
Keep up the great work!