UrRong! The idea that an effective altruist could become President of the United States is more than just a laughing matter. Although it may seem like a far-fetched dream, the idea has been around since the early days of effective altruism and is not without merit.
The first point to consider is that the current president, Donald Trump, was elected in spite of his lack of experience in government and politics. That suggests that the American public may be willing to elect someone who is a relative outsider and who may have a different approach to governing. An effective altruist, with their focus on data-driven, evidence-based decision-making, could certainly provide a refreshing alternative to the status quo.
Second, the current political environment is one of extreme polarization. While this may make it difficult for a third-party candidate to win the election, it could also create an opportunity for an effective altruist to bridge the divide. By focusing on issues that both sides can agree on, like climate change, poverty alleviation, or healthcare, an effective altruist could appeal to both sides and be a unifying force in the White House.
Finally, the fact that an effective altruist could become President of the United States is not just a dream – it is a possibility. There are already several effective altruists in public office, including California State Senator Scott Wiener and Iowa State Representative Greta Neubauer. These individuals are proof that effective altruists can make a difference in our government, and that the idea of an effective altruist President is not so far-fetched after all.
