The Singer Solution to World Poverty

Compare and contrast Singer’s two fictional scenarios featuring Dora and Bob. What role do they play in the text? What function does each serve by itself, and how do they work together as part of a logical progression?

Singer insists that his formula for calculating an ethically appropriate level of donations is simple: Just subtract money spent on necessities from total earnings and donate the rest. Can this simple distinction between luxury and necessity readily apply to the real world? For instance, if one must maximize donations, must one also reduce one’s standard of living to save even more money? Write an essay problematizing Singer’s simple formula, suggesting potential revisions or qualifications.

Singer’s forward tone, while engaging, borders on arrogant or manipulative. Given Singer’s likely target audience, is his tone more likely to win his position more support (and push readers to action) or to make readers defensive and wary? Support your analysis with textual examples.