If you're lucky enough to live without want, it's a natural impulse to be altruistic to others. But, asks philosopher Peter Singer, what's the most effective way to give? He talks through some surprising thought experiments to help you balance emotion and practicality -- and make the biggest impact with whatever you can share. NOTE: Starting at ...

In this powerful talk, P.W. Singer shows how the widespread use of robots in war is changing the realities of combat. He shows us scenarios straight out of science fiction -- that now may not be so fictitious.

Why do we prioritize human rights over those of other species? Philosopher Peter Singer dives into what he calls "speciesism," the root of the widely ignored mistreatment of animals around the world, from factory farms to product-testing facilities. He makes the case for ending the commercial exploitation of animals for food and invites everyone...

Macy Gray's voice just does something for us. Here, the singer and activist picks four talks she would never try to say goodbye to.

Sometimes controversial, always practical ethicist Peter Singer stirs public debate about morality, from animal welfare to global poverty.

In P.W. Singer's most recent book, "Wired for War," he studies robotic and drone warfighters -- and explores how these new war machines are changing the very nature of human conflict. He has also written on other facets of modern war, including private armies and child soldiers.

Compassion is a balancing act — something that must actively practiced in order to thrive. Learn to foster altruism and compassion in your communities with these quiet, yet powerful talks.

Ryan Coogler, director of "Creed" and "Fruitvale Station," picks his 6 favorite talks.

Legendary dance choreographer Bill T. Jones and TED Fellows Joshua Roman and Somi didn't know exactly what was going to happen when they took the stage at TED2015. They just knew they wanted to offer the audience an opportunity to witness creative collaboration in action. The result: An improvised piece they call "The Red Circle and the Blue Cur...

With technical advancement comes great ethical responsibility. In these talks, amazing, life-altering feats of science make us ask: How could we mess this up?

Nerd out with these talks that prove you can use all-time classics like Harry Potter and Star Wars to help explain the real world.

An orchestra fills an opera house with music, but a singer's voice soars above the instruments. Its melody rings out across thousands of patrons— all without any assistance from a microphone. How is it possible that a single voice can be heard so clearly? The answer lies in the physics of the human voice. Ming Luke explains the carefully honed t...

The little things that you (yes, you) can do now (yes, now) to make a difference.

Depending on who you listen to, drones will either save the world -- or usher in our techno-driven doom. Here, take a look at the light and dark side of drones. See exclusive articles on the TED blog.

Brandon Boyd, lead singer of Incubus, says, "I hope to one day perform live music on the moon. Perhaps if all goes according to plan, we can make a TED Talk out of it!" We eagerly await this event. Until then, here are his favorite talks.

Caroline Phillips' rich, soprano voice conjures up the far-and-wide cultures of the world, especially the sound and language of the Basque Country.

South African singer-songwriter Vusi Mahlasela dedicates his song, "Thula Mama," to all women -- and especially his grandmother.

Singer Inara George and guitarist Mike Andrews play the quietly lovely love song "Family Tree."

Indie newcomer Sophie Hunger's haunting vocals -- at once fragile and soulful -- carried her wistful, blues-dappled acoustic folk from intimate cafe appearances to extraordinary word-of-mouth success and cross-Europe tours.

Imogen Heap's aching voice and surprising electronics infuse countless videos and iPods with bone-chilling atmospherics.

Angélique Kidjo is a creative force noted for her diverse musical influences and global activism.

A self-described "dance floor demon," singer-songwriter Tolliver rocks the house with a performance of "Say What!" and "Nervous."

What happens when a black man visits Aspen? Singer/songwriter Stew and his band are about to let you know.

Singer-songwriter Nellie McKay performs the semi-serious song "Clonie" -- about creating the ultimate companion.

Guitarist and singer Raul Midon plays "Everybody" and "Peace on Earth" during his 2007 set at TED.

Singer-songwriter Valerie June delivers an uplifting, ethereal performance of "Astral Plane" as part of TED's Countdown Global Livestream on October 30, 2021.

We need to talk about war. These powerful, crucial talks come from soldiers, politicians, journalists and others who've seen the reality of war firsthand.

Singer-songwriter Mereba delivers a divinely captivating performance, evoking messages of resilience and triumph in the face of adversity.

Singer-songwriter Niaz Nawab performs three songs, weaving stanzas from Persian poetry and philosophy into the latter two.

Singer/songwriter Eddi Reader performs "Kiteflyer's Hill," a tender look back at a lost love. With Thomas Dolby on piano.