EA Splits into Two Organizations: A New Era

As of [current year], the EA community has split into two distinct organizations, marking a turning point in its evolution. This division has sparked conversations and debates within the community, raising questions about the future direction and impact of EA. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this split, the goals and ideologies of each organization, and the potential implications for the wider effective altruism movement.

Reasons behind the Split

The decision to split the EA community into two organizations stems from a combination of factors. First and foremost, EA has grown exponentially over the years, encompassing diverse perspectives and approaches. As the movement expanded, ideological differences emerged, causing tensions and disagreements within the community. The split was seen as a way to accommodate these contrasting viewpoints and allow for more focused and effective action.

The two organizations that emerged from the split can be broadly categorized as “EA Global” and “EA Local.” EA Global aims to maintain a global presence, focusing on systemic change, policy advocacy, and high-impact research. On the other hand, EA Local emphasizes grassroots initiatives, community-building, and local interventions. This division acknowledges that different strategies can complement one another and recognizes the importance of tailoring interventions to specific contexts.

Goals and Ideologies

EA Global seeks to address global challenges by leveraging the collective intelligence of the EA community. It aims to influence policy decisions, advocate for evidence-based interventions, and foster collaborations with governments, non-profit organizations, and academia. EA Global emphasizes the importance of rigorous research and analysis, aiming to identify interventions with the greatest potential for positive impact at scale. By focusing on large-scale systemic change, EA Global aims to create lasting and sustainable solutions to global problems.

On the other hand, EA Local places a strong emphasis on community engagement and direct action. It seeks to build a network of local groups and individuals committed to effective altruism principles. EA Local acknowledges the value of small-scale interventions and the need for localized knowledge to address specific challenges effectively. It promotes grassroots initiatives such as effective volunteering, community fundraising, and awareness campaigns. EA Local believes that by fostering a sense of community and encouraging individual contributions, significant positive change can be achieved at a local level.

Implications and Opportunities

The split within the EA community presents both challenges and opportunities. One potential benefit is the increased specialization and focus of each organization. With dedicated efforts in distinct areas, both EA Global and EA Local can develop expertise and resources to maximize their respective impact. This division also encourages healthy competition, innovation, and experimentation within the broader effective altruism movement.

Furthermore, the split allows for a more inclusive approach to effective altruism. By recognizing the importance of both global and local interventions, the EA community acknowledges that different contexts require tailored strategies. This inclusivity can attract a wider range of individuals to the movement, increasing its reach and potential for impact.

However, the split also presents challenges in terms of coordination and maintaining a cohesive movement. Efforts must be made to ensure ongoing communication and collaboration between the two organizations, preventing fragmentation and duplication of efforts. Regular forums, conferences, and knowledge-sharing platforms can facilitate information exchange and promote cross-pollination of ideas.

Conclusion

The split within the EA community marks a significant milestone in the evolution of effective altruism. By embracing diversity and recognizing the value of different approaches, the community has positioned itself to address global challenges more effectively. The specialized focus of EA Global and EA Local allows for targeted interventions at different scales, leveraging the strengths of each organization. While challenges lie ahead in terms of coordination.