In theory

The current vague idea of int/a is to explore new frameworks for altruism beyond the current norms and thought patterns that drive the effective altruist (EA) movement. For example, leaning less on assumptions of classical utilitarianism, Bayesianism, techno-solutionism, and left-brain thinking.

Integral altruism, inspired by integral theory, aims to both include and transcend EA, by integrating new perspectives. Since EA is arguably quite left-brain, there will be an emphasis on right-brain modes of sensemaking: systems thinking, wisdom, spirituality, metamodernism. The goals are the same, to do the most good, but to also break free from the underlying explicit and implicit assumptions that permeate the current EA movement.

One way to frame int/a could be to say it's “something in between EA and the integral/metacrisis/liminal cluster”. Another way could be something like "post-rationalism + altruism". A third could be "altruism using an integration of both axiomatic and ecological rationality". A fourth could be to call it "value drift club", for those who want a new coherent framework to understand their values. This is a home for effective altruists who resonate less with the direction of EA but still think deeply about doing good.

upcoming events