The early Effective Altruists
Movement using evidence and reason for most effective global good.
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Narrative
The early Effective Altruists cultivated a unique culture centered on rigorous, evidence-based reasoning applied to philanthropy and impact. Emerging from the intellectual environments of Oxford and Cambridge universities, it fostered innovation by systematically evaluating charitable interventions, promoting the idea that doing good should be as effective as possible. This was a direct response to perceived inefficiencies in traditional charity.
The 'scenius' developed from a community of philosophers, economists, and data-minded individuals who shared a utilitarian ethical framework. They encouraged critical inquiry, data analysis, and open discussion to identify neglected, tractable, and scalable global problems, creating a collective genius focused on maximizing positive impact per unit of effort or donation.
Key People
Founders / Key Theorists
- Toby Ord
- William MacAskill
Significant Influencers
- Peter Singer
Early Organizational Leaders
- Holden Karnofsky (GiveWell)
- Elie Hassenfeld (GiveWell)
Breakthroughs
- Giving What We Can (2009): An organization and pledge to donate a significant portion of income to highly effective charities, popularizing the concept of evidence-based giving.
- GiveWell's Research Methodology (2007 onwards): Pioneering in-depth, evidence-based analysis of charities to identify those with the highest impact per dollar.
- 80,000 Hours (2011): An organization providing research and career advice focused on how individuals can maximize their positive impact through their careers.
- Centre for Effective Altruism (2011): Established to build and support the effective altruism community and its related projects.
- Concept of 'Earning to Give': A strategy encouraging individuals to pursue high-earning careers specifically to donate a large portion of their income to effective causes.
Related Entities
Foundational Organizations
- GiveWell: A charity evaluator that heavily influenced EA's methodology.
- Giving What We Can: An early organization within the movement promoting pledges to donate effectively.
- 80,000 Hours: Provides career guidance for high-impact careers.
- Centre for Effective Altruism: An umbrella organization supporting the EA movement.
Influenced By
- Peter Singer: His philosophical work on effective giving and animal liberation significantly influenced early EA thinkers.
- Utilitarianism: The ethical framework underpinning much of EA's focus on maximizing overall good.
Academic Affiliations
- University of Oxford: Home to several EA-affiliated research centers, such as the Future of Humanity Institute and the Global Priorities Institute.
- University of Cambridge: Another key academic hub for early EA discussions and research.