Sometimes we just need to put our heads down and get to work, but equally important is taking the time to reflect on what (and why) we are doing. Here are some interesting and controversial perspectives that have kept me occupied this morning.
The Sin in Doing Good Deeds: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/25/opinion/25kristof.html?em
Buzzwords: http://blogs.nyu.edu/fas/dri/aidwatch/2009/02/participation_of_the_poor_in_m.html
Anti-Bono: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/22/magazine/22wwln-q4-t.html?_r=1&ref=magazine
I think Kristof often adds value. He questions.
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As well as the fact that I’m personally headed into the gray zone explored in Kristof’s article.
I do sense what I think is an unfair and poorly justified popular opinion that this type of work must be unflinchingly selfless. As Kristof, I admire when it is, but understand when it isn’t. I’ve long said that I gain more from being here than I can give, in experience, opportunity, etc, etc.
But sometimes it seems like as soon as we enter this world, we’re held to a moral standard much higher than the common person. In part that’s ok. But to try to extinguish all self interest from this field is unreasonable and unfair. Plus after decades of stale aid, it’s time to rethink a few things.
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