In this class, we consider the ethics and efficacy of international aid. Our primary focus is on the moral question of whether we have a duty to aid the global poor. However, if, as many philosophers have recently argued, moral ideals ought to be “feasible”, then answering the moral questions about our duty toward the global poor depends crucially on whether aiding the global poor is something that we can actually do. In an attempt to determine whether this is the case, we also consider the economic, political, and psychological factors that influence the efficacy of international aid.

Intended Audience:

Senior PPE majors

Class Format:

seminar style