The Buddhist and the Ethicist Conversations on Effective Altruism, Engaged Buddhism, and How to Build a Better World

Eastern spirituality and utilitarian philosophy meet in these unique dialogues between a Buddhist monastic and a moral philosopher

Lively debate on such issues as animal welfare, gender equality, the death penalty, and more

This eye-opening read spans the foundations of ethics and key Buddhist concepts. Professor Peter Singer is a world-renowned moral philosopher and preeminent voice in bioethics whose writings have helped shape the animal rights and effective altruism movements. Venerable Shih Chao-Hwei of Taiwan is a Buddhist monastic and social activist who’s been a key figure in the Buddhist gender equality movement. This unlikely duo came together in conversation at a meditation retreat center in 2016 and continued discussions in writing. They shed light on the intersection of philosophy, religion, and day-to-day life. The result is an honest and open exchange of ideas with thought-provoking perspectives on

• sex,
• abortion,
• euthanasia,
• war, and more.

The eight dialogues collected are genuine and intimate—and their words have been presented here to offer readers a glimpse into this rare and fascinating exchange on how to make the world a better place.

PETER SINGER, the “father of the modern animal welfare movement,” was named one of the most influential people in the world by Time magazine. An Australian philosopher and professor of bioethics, he has  contributed to more than 50 books in over 30 languages. Singer is founder of The Life You Can Save nonprofit and a professor of bioethics at Princeton University as well as Laureate Professor at the University of Melbourne. SHIH CHAO-HWEI is a Buddhist monastic, social activist, scholar, and recent winner of the Niwano Peace Prize. A leading advocate for animal rights, a vocal supporter of same-sex marriage, and a key figure in the Buddhist gender equality movement, she is also a professor at Hsuan Chuang University and the founder of Hong Shih Buddhist College.