The second book in the Civil Society Series, initiated by the Turkey Third Sector Foundation (TÜSEV), which celebrates its 30th year this year and aims to contribute to the development of the field through the translation of international resources related to civil society into Turkish and to promote stakeholder dialogue, has been published. The book is titled “The Greatest Good: How My Thoughts on Effective Altruism Change” and was written by philosopher Peter Singer, a faculty member in the Department of Bioethics at Princeton University.

“Can Humans Put the Needs and Interests of Others Ahead of Their Own?”

The author of the book published in collaboration with Koç University Publications (KÜY) and Koç University Center for Civil Society and Philanthropy Research (KUSITHAM), Peter Singer, is known for his work in practical ethics, animal rights, utilitarianism, and related fields. In his book, Singer focuses on the concept of altruism, which has been a significant topic of debate in the history of philosophy for over two centuries, and asks, “Is doing the ‘greatest’ good possible without sacrificing something? Does the satisfaction we derive from the good deeds we do for others make these deeds less ethical?”

An Invitation to Look at the Concept of Philanthropy Differently

As part of the Civil Society Series, which aims to disseminate important and current topics related to civil society in Turkey by monitoring various topics of interest to civil society at the national and international levels under the Research & Publications program area of TÜSEV, “The Greatest Good: How My Thoughts on Effective Altruism Change” invites readers to look at the concept and practice of philanthropy in a different way. The book explores the uncommon approaches of a couple who plan their own living standards based on the financial support they want to give to others throughout their lives and an entrepreneur from the real estate sector who, instead of considering using all of his earnings for philanthropy sufficient, donates organs to impact the lives of many people.

Interview with the Author in November

The event for the book, which brings the concept of altruism into the field of practical ethics from today’s perspective, is planned to be held online in November with the participation of the author, Peter Singer. You can follow TÜSEV’s social media channels for details on the discussion, which will be attended by stakeholders from the civil society sector and experts contributing to the field.

About TÜSEV

Established in 1993 by foundations and associations to improve the legal, financial, and functional infrastructure of civil society. TÜSEV continues its work with the goal of a stronger, more participatory, and reputable civil society under four program areas: Legal Studies, Effective Philanthropy, Research and Publications, and Reputation of Civil Society.