The essay "The Singer Solution to World Poverty", written by Peter Singer, states that the only solution to solve world poverty is for Americans to donate all the money they have that is not needed for necessities to aid organizations overseas. Singers article was published on September 5, 1999 in The New York Times Magazine. In the article, Singer uses two hypothetical situations to compare to the Americans who do not donate all their extra money. Singer uses valid points in his article that makes someone question their morals and ethics. The purpose of "The Singer Solution to World Poverty" is to encourage the reader to donate to the underprivileged people in the world. Singer uses exaggerated situations to play with peoples emotions so he can trick them into thinking this "Solution" is the only way, and any other option titles you as almost being a "child murderer.".
Not far into the article, Singer presents himself as a utilitarian philosopher. He defines this as, "one who judges whether acts are right or wrong based by their consequences." When he does this, the appeal to why he is writing this essay becomes apparent. Singer's motive for writing this piece is to inform the audience of the importance and effectiveness of donating money to overseas aid organizations and to get the reader to do so. Singer is directing his writing to anyone who has the ability to donate. He makes it clear in his article that almost everyone has the ability to donate and help prevent poverty around the world. Singers main point in this essay is that we as Americans are so stuck in this material world that we believe we don't have extra time or money to donate. Even with a small donation it could save the life of a poor child. If we just cut down on our greediness on unnecessary luxuries, we could make a change. He delivers his message to the reader in an effective and organized way.
