On January 12, 2010, an earthquake hit Haiti at a 7.0 on the rictor scale. Thousands of people are homeless and have nowhere to go. The Chicago Tribune posted an article on January 15 about the relief efforts for the people of Haiti. Individuals have been giving money and canned goods to help the people of Haiti. The response to the disaster has been so high that now anyone is organizing an effort to help. Authorities have warned that freelance philanthropy might only get so far.
Aristotle might state that the best way to help the people of Haiti is to donate food and cloths instead of money. What they need now is the basic necessities to stay alive. Money is only the instrument to acquire the necessities of life. Instead of giving money, it is best to give them what they need instead of the instrument. In order to help them, we first need private property. According to Aristotle, there is a "pleasure in doing a kindness or service to [others], which can only be tendered when a man has private property." Hence, we need private property to do good for the people of Haiti.
I belive that Aristotle has a point. We should give canned goods and cloths instead of money. Now, especially, because there are alot of people that are starting up philanthropy efforts that can be a scam to steal our money. That is what authorities are warning people that are trying to help. Plus, the people of Haiti need food to stay alive in the defistation. What can they do with money, if they have nothing they can use it on, when most of their area has been destroyed. Aristotle states that we need private property. In order for us to help them we need to have private property. If we had all things in common, no one would set an example of liberality according to Aristotle.
I definitely agree that Haiti needs food and clothes, but I think money is most efficient way of distributing these items. Given that we do not know the situation first-hand, a donation of money would allow for organizations there to purchase goods in need and allocate them appropriately. Also, I think people would be more inclined to donate money rather than goods because it is more convenient.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great article and I know what your trying to say, but I have to agree with Brian. I think that money would be easiest way to help the people of Haiti. Also I think people would find it eaiser to donate money instead of canned food and clothing.
ReplyDeleteAs much as I agree that Haiti needs food and clothes, that's not the only thing they need. By sending money to they can buy whatever necessities they need such as medical aid or etc. Our country has done an amazing job of raising money for their relief. By sending a text message to a certain number you can donate $10. Our efficient money raising ways are the reason why Haiti is on the road to recovery. I'm still finding the connection of private property to canned goods and food hard to see, but I do realize the point you're attempting to make.
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