Banking: the ethical career choice
In David Edmonds (ed.) Philosophers take on the world, Oxford, 2016
Abstract
The article argues that recent criticism of bankers’ salaries is short-sighted. While acknowledging the negative implications of exorbitant salaries, the article argues that individuals can use high earnings to positively impact the world. The author introduces the concept of “earning-to-give,” where individuals pursue high-paying careers, specifically in finance, and dedicate a significant portion of their earnings to charitable donations. This approach, the article contends, can have a significantly greater impact on global well-being compared to traditional “ethical” careers in non-profit sectors. The author outlines three key advantages of “earning-to-give”: the potential to donate substantial sums, the ability to target donations towards the most effective charities, and the flexibility to adapt donations based on emerging evidence and changing global needs. The author concludes by emphasizing the importance of carefully considering career choices to maximize positive social impact. – AI-generated abstract.