I wish to discuss the pros, cons, and nuances of empathy and social sensitivities. The autism community, in particular, appear to feel things deeply, and as such, tend to have a relatively high sensitivity to the many social injustices and inequalities in our world...not only personally, but also for others. In some cases, we may find ourselves filtering our experiences and world views through this lens. Emotional and social empathy is commonly considered a virtue. People are often judged by their capacity and expression of it. However, when emotional and social empathy is in its amplified form, can it be weaponized to cause harm...and in the words of some...become a sin?
Examples:
1. "Cancel culture"
2. If combined with the personal perspective of "I am morally virtuous and I am going to point out that you are not."
3. If combined with emotional dysregulation, property destruction, verbal and physical violence.
4. If combined with a sense of entitlement and narcissism.
5. If combined with a narrow world view.
6. If combined with high confidence and little knowledge.
Personally, I am a healthcare worker with some 40 years of experience. I have seen all manner of horrible and tragic human experiences and death. That said, that experience also comes with the understanding of the concepts of nuance and moderation, as well as too little and too much of anything.
Thoughts?
Examples:
1. "Cancel culture"
2. If combined with the personal perspective of "I am morally virtuous and I am going to point out that you are not."
3. If combined with emotional dysregulation, property destruction, verbal and physical violence.
4. If combined with a sense of entitlement and narcissism.
5. If combined with a narrow world view.
6. If combined with high confidence and little knowledge.
Personally, I am a healthcare worker with some 40 years of experience. I have seen all manner of horrible and tragic human experiences and death. That said, that experience also comes with the understanding of the concepts of nuance and moderation, as well as too little and too much of anything.
Thoughts?
