How Effective is The Singer Solution to World Poverty?

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Recommended: Poverty data for lesser developed countries

In “The Singer Solution to World Poverty,” Singer argues that all households should donate a percentage of their incomes to charity. Majority of the American population is satisfied with donating little to nothing to those in need, but seldom rethink the purchase of the luxury items. It is a commonly accepted fact that those who work for their earnings are deserving of the monies that they receive. Unfortunately, those in third world countries that don’t have the same resources and opportunities are unable to sustain their livelihood. Some children in third world countries suffer from deprivation of food and shelter; while those that are fortunate enough to have jobs are paid only cents a day. (“Some H-1B Workers Underpaid, Federal Auditors Say.”) Therefore, Singer is right in saying that we should be more cognizant to the suffering that takes place globally, but in order for his vision to be recognized Americans must be made aware of the benefits that their dollars can have; as well as the downfalls that occur when they don’t donate.

Singer begins by referencing an example from the film “Central Station” where he challenges us to distinguish the “ethical distinction” between a Brazilian woman who sells a homeless child to organ peddlers, and an American who already has a TV and upgrades to a better one…” (324). Conceptually, what makes buying a new television, laptop, or iPod so different from selling a child? According to Singer nothing sets us apart; both are equally severe. Singer also argues that “ [There is] no escape from the conclusion that each one of us with a wealth surplus to his or her essential needs should be giving more of it to help people suffering from poverty…” (Singer 327) In the essay He focuses most of ...

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...he poverty level in these countries will decrease immensely. As this happens these countries will have a strong foundation for which they can economically build their counties. In order for this to be possible, volunteers and donators must join and take the lead in community for the well-being of these foreign countries. The more power that the foreign children have in determining the outcome of their futures, the closer we will be as a poverty free world. With the conversion of Singer’s vision in to a realistic/attainable goal we may not be able to eliminate poverty, but we will slowly be nearing a solution.

Work Cited

Jones, Gerard. “Violent Media is Good for Kids.” Analytical Writing: A Guide to College Composition 1. M. Clay Hooper.,D. Marzette., Beth Wade. Cengage Learning, 2011. 285-88. Print.

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