Can data make us more human?

Hi there,

Sometimes, people tell me that “calculating” a charity’s impact and comparing it to other programs feels strange—even uncharitable. I used to share these concerns, especially having worked for some organisations who might not come out on top in these calculations.

We naturally think of giving as a matter of the heart, so it can feel odd when numbers and comparisons come into the mix. But stories like PlayPumps, which I shared last time, illustrate why it’s so important. Without the data, it’s surprisingly easy to jump behind an ineffective program.

But what about charities that are accomplishing their goals? Why compare them to each other rather than just supporting the causes you’re passionate about?

I think it really depends on what you value.

We recently made a short film to try to explain why some are motivated to seek out the charities that not only work, but also achieve more with each donation than average. Here’s a little excerpt:

Here's one takeaway: effective giving isn’t about optimizing for optimization’s sake.

It’s about using evidence, data and thoughtful consideration to ensure that your care goes as far as it can.

“We don't make spreadsheets because we lack care. We make them because we care deeply. In the face of tremendous suffering, prioritisation helps us take decisive, thoughtful action instead of freezing or leaving impact on the table. - Zach Robinson, CEO of Centre for Effective Altruism

That said, prioritisation is complex. What does giving with impact look like in practice? How do we choose between millions of charities? It starts with zooming out to take a broader look at the world's problems.

Watch below:

Choosing what to support

Until next time,

James

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