“Teddies for Timor” and the Perils of Good Intentions
There’s a strong impulse to send physical goods rather than cash after a disaster. But these unsolicited goods can block more critical aid and often end up in landfills.
There’s a strong impulse to send physical goods rather than cash after a disaster. But these unsolicited goods can block more critical aid and often end up in landfills.
Donors face a tradeoff between helping broadly and helping deeply.
A homeless person approaches you during the lunchtime hour, appealing for a few dollars to buy lunch. You are moved to help, but you have a choice.