William MacAskill - Icon Profile | Alexandria
William MacAskill (born 24 March 1987) is a Scottish philosopher, ethicist, and prominent figure in the effective altruism movement who has fundamentally reshaped modern approaches to philanthropy and ethical living. As an Associate Professor in Philosophy at the University of Oxford and co-founder of several influential organizations, MacAskill has emerged as one of the most compelling moral philosophers of the 21st century.
First coming to prominence during his studies at Cambridge and Oxford in the late 2000s, MacAskill, alongside philosophers like Peter Singer and Toby Ord, began developing the framework for what would become effective altruism—a philosophical and social movement that applies evidence and reason to determine the most effective ways to benefit others. His early work coincided with a growing disillusionment with traditional charitable giving, as studies revealed the varying effectiveness of different interventions.
MacAskill's influence expanded dramatically with the publication of his books "Doing Good Better" (2015) and "What We Owe The Future" (2022), which introduced revolutionary concepts about moral obligation and longtermism—the view that positively influencing the long-term future is a key moral priority. He co-founded organizations that would reshape modern philanthropy, including Giving What We Can, 80,000 Hours, and the Centre for Effective Altruism. These institutions have influenced the allocation of hundreds of millions of dollars in charitable giving and career choices of thousands of individuals.
The philosophical implications of MacAskill's work extend far beyond charitable giving, touching on fundamental questions about moral responsibility, existential risk, and humanity's obligations to future generations. His ideas have attracted both passionate supporters and critics, sparking debates about the role of quantification in moral decision-making and the balance between immediate and long-term ethical priorities. MacAskill's personal commitment to his principles—including his pledge to donate a significant portion of his income to effective causes—has made him not just a theoretical architect but a living embodiment of the movement he helped create.
As concerns about global challenges mount and questions of ethical responsibility become increasingly urgent, MacAskill's framework for systematic moral reasoning continues to influence how individuals and institutions approach their obligations to humanity, both present and future. His work raises profound questions about how we might best use our resources and opportunities to benefit others, challenging us to consider not just how to do good, but how to do the most good possible.