Poverty & Our Response to It: Crash Course Philosophy

The video discusses the moral obligations of affluent societies to address extreme poverty. It contrasts Peter Singer's view, which argues for individual responsibility to prevent harm at little cost, with Garrett Hardin's lifeboat analogy, which suggests limited resources should prioritize national interests. The video critiques Hardin's perspective, highlighting the uneven distribution of resources and the arbitrary nature of national boundaries in moral considerations.

What is one of the main reasons children in extreme poverty die, according to the video?

• Lack of access to education

• Lack of clean water

• Lack of shelter

• Lack of clothing

In Singer's thought experiment, what is the moral dilemma presented?

• Choosing between buying new shoes and donating to charity

• Choosing between saving a child and attending a class

• Choosing between saving a child and keeping your shoes clean

• Choosing between helping a friend and a stranger

According to Singer, what should you do if you can prevent great harm at little cost to yourself?

• Take action to prevent the harm

• Consider the actions of others first

• Wait for someone else to act

• Ignore the situation

What does Singer argue about the presence of others who could help in a situation?

• It absolves you of responsibility

• It increases your responsibility

• It makes the situation more complex

• It does not change your responsibility

What is the main argument of Hardin's lifeboat analogy?

• Overpopulation is not a concern

• Aid should be given to all in need

• Resources should be conserved for one's own nation

• Nations should help each other equally

What is a critique of Hardin's lifeboat analogy mentioned in the video?

• It assumes resources are scarce

• It promotes overpopulation

• It encourages excessive aid

• It ignores national boundaries

According to the video, what is a non-arbitrary line for determining who deserves help?

• National boundaries

• There is only one boat, and we're all in it

• State boundaries

• Family ties