Ethics in the Real World

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Peter Singer is often regarded as the world's most influential and controversial philosopher, known for his pivotal works like "Animal Liberation" and "Practical Ethics." In this collection of brief essays, he adeptly analyzes pressing current events through his thought-provoking lens. Topics include climate change, extreme poverty, animal rights, abortion, euthanasia, human genetic selection, sports doping, kidney sales, and the ethics surrounding high-priced art, all while exploring ways to enhance happiness. Singer poses provocative questions, such as whether chimpanzees should be considered people, if smoking should be banned, and whether consensual relationships between adult siblings should be decriminalized. He reiterates his stance against the sanctity of all human life, applying his arguments to recent news cases. Additionally, he delves into profound philosophical inquiries about meaning and the value of our planet. The collection also features personal reflections, including Singer's passion for surfing and a unique suggestion for sparking family conversations during holiday gatherings. These essays are both challenging and original, encouraging readers to reconsider their beliefs on a wide array of ethical dilemmas.