A bit late, but I think it is worth distinguishing two types of adjustments in this post. Typically, we evaluate alternative actions in terms of achieving a proxy goal, such as preventing deaths due to a particular disease. We attempt to compute the expected effect on the proxy goal of the alternatives. One adjustment is uncertainty in that calculation, such as whether the intervention works in theory, whether the charity is competent to carry it out, whether the charity has room for additional funding.

The other kind of adjustment is uncertainty in matching the proxy goal to our real goals. Choosing transparent charities may cause others to become more transparent and ultimate more effective, and indirectly save lives. Malthusian concerns or economic growth potential may make some ways of saving lives better than others.

Are there any other category of adjustments?