The traditional neoclassical economic view that preferences are “inscrutable” and can only be revealed through behavior would, if true, make it difficult for altruists to make efficient decisions. We question whether altruism should be defined as a preference that can be revealed, or indeed,...

This comment on Rebecca Blank's “Poverty, Policy, and Ethics: Can an Economist be Critical and Caring?” celebrates her insights but argues for an even more critical analysis of the meaning of “caring” in economic discourse.