O'neill on Global Poverty

O'Neill's Ethics
O'Neill uses Kant’s idea to talk about world poverty: respect people, don’t just use them.

Hardin’s Lifeboat Ethics
Rich nations are like people in a lifeboat; the poor are drowning—but helping might sink the boat.

Problems with Lifeboat Ethics
Helping doesn't always hurt, and rich countries might owe their wealth to using poor countries unfairly.

Singer’s Argument on Famine Relief
If we can stop something bad without hurting ourselves, we should—like helping starving people.

Singer vs. Hardin
Singer says give a lot; Hardin warns it could backfire.

Government Aid Problems
Aid given between governments might support corrupt leaders instead of helping the people.

Project Food Aid
Charities give food, but it can harm local farmers and create dependency.

Superficial vs. Genuine Aid Actions
Helping is good—but why we help matters. Helping for profit isn’t virtuous.

Formula of Humanity in Aid
Don’t just use poor countries as tools to make money—respect their dignity.

Grain Merchant Example
Selling food isn’t wrong—but lying about shortages to raise prices is.

Justice vs. Beneficence
Justice = don’t hurt or use people.
Beneficence = help people live better.

Finite Rationality & Autonomy
Poor people often can’t act freely because they lack information or power.

Duties of Justice in Global Poverty
No price cheating, no bribes, no unfair deals in aid.

Beneficence in Poverty Relief
Help poor people be free and independent, not just survive.

Kantian vs. Utilitarian Help
Utilitarians do what brings most happiness; Kantians focus on treating people with respect.