Effective Altruism and the Transaction Costs of Maximizing Expected Value

The Answer Is Transaction Costs

A thought-provoking conversation about Effective Altruism (EA) with technologist Ben Goldhaber, as we explore its intersections with utilitarianism and transaction costs. We'll try to navigate the tricky terrains of libertarianism and the more "directed" world of EA, balancing directional and destinationist solutions, and the role of strong leadership and community dynamics in maintaining this equilibrium.
We'll question the limits of utility maximization as a framework and ponder over the potential dangers it could pose if unchecked. Our discussion investigates how EA, rational thinking, and global development has influenced the field of AI alignment.
And my favorite new TWEJ, from @dtarias. In the first monthly edition of TAITC.
Some resources:

• The Reddit source for the TWEJ
• Sunday Brunch, for $195, at the Breakers
• EconTalk: Peter Singer
• EconTalk: Will McCaskill and Longtermism
• EconTalk: Eric Hoel and the Repugnant Conclusion
• Kevin Munger--Everything Was Rational and Nothing Vibed
• Consequentialism: IEP
• Effective Altruism Forum
• SB-F on SB-F (New York Times)

If you have questions or comments, or want to suggest a future topic, email the show at [e-mail] !

You can follow Mike Munger on Twitter at @mungowitz

Chapters

1. Effective Altruism and the Transaction Costs of Maximizing Expected Value (00:00:00)

2. Effective Altruism and Transaction Costs (00:00:01)

3. Navigating Libertarian Ideals and Practical Implementation (00:13:32)

4. Utility Maximization and Effective Altruism Attitudes (00:18:37)

5. EA's Impact on AI and Development (00:28:54)

6. Transaction Costs in Effective Altruism (00:34:39)

7. Effective Altruism and EA Forum Recommendations (00:40:13)

8. Animal Charity Funding and Expensive Buffet (00:43:50)