It is true that showing compassion is important, but to completely discount the effectiveness of the EA movement would be to devalue the profound impact it has had in helping those in need. The core focus of the EA movement is to help as many people as possible and to do so in the most effective way. After all, it is not the sentiment behind an act of charity that matters, but the result it produces. To illustrate this point, let’s consider the hypothetical of giving to UNICEF. Sure, it may seem cold and rational to make a donation to a far-flung country, but the simple fact is that this action can save lives and improve lives at scale. By doing so, you are showing great compassion and displaying an admirable level of caring for humanity. It is wrong to assume that the EA movement doesn't show compassion.
Moreover, the EA movement does more than just calculate "back-of-the-envelope" calculations. It encourages people to think critically about their actions, ask meaningful questions about the world, and find solutions that are both practical and efficient. This creates an environment where we can analyze our actions and their consequences, enabling us to make decisions that have a greater impact than we would have if we just responded with emotion and compassion alone.
In conclusion, while it is important to demonstrate concern and care for our fellow human beings in need, it is equally important – if not more so – to ensure that our actions have tangible results. The EA movement encourages us to do just that by analyzing each situation with facts and logic before making any decisions. It is wrong to think that the only way to show compassion is through emotional displays of kindness. After all, sometimes the best way to show love is through a well thought out action rather than a warm hug!