The case of the missing cause prioritisation research

Abstract

Cause prioritization is extremely valuable in guiding effective altruistic efforts. However, despite considerable progress in spreading effective altruism ideas and raising funds, research on cause prioritization has advanced at a slower pace than one might expect. This is partly because such research is inherently difficult, and partly due to a lack of incentives and coordination. While some organizations, such as the Open Philanthropy Project, have incorporated elements of cause prioritization into their operations, a systematic, comprehensive approach is lacking. There is also a dearth of research on cause prioritization from the perspective of different ethical frameworks, on prioritizing interventions that go beyond traditional philanthropy, such as those requiring political capital, and on empirically comparing the effectiveness of high-level interventions, such as policy changes. Addressing these gaps would likely be valuable for ensuring that effective altruists are indeed having the largest positive impact. – AI-generated abstract.