Famine, Affluence, and Morality

"Famine, Affluence, and Morality" is an essay by philosopher Peter Singer that challenges us to consider our moral responsibilities. It argues that if we can prevent suffering and death—such as by donating to aid organizations—without sacrificing something of comparable moral importance, then we are morally obligated to do so. Singer suggests that living comfortably while others starve is ethically similar to causing harm. The essay encourages people in affluent societies to rethink the limits of their charity and believe that moral duty extends beyond mere personal comfort to actively reducing global suffering.