As Adam Smith put it centuries ago: “the emotion which we…
““As Adam Smith put it centuries ago: “the emotion which we feel for the misery of others… is by no means confined to the virtuous and humane, though they perhaps may feel it with the most exquisite sensibility.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Empathy for others' suffering is not limited to the morally upright; anyone can feel it, though sensitivity varies.
In simple terms: Anyone can feel others' pain, but some feel it more deeply.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate empathy regardless of moral self‑image.
Themes
empathy
humanity
psychology
ethics
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
motivational
psychological
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- conflict resolution
- team leadership
Key Concepts
social cognition
compassion
emotional intelligence
Questions to Reflect On
- What barriers limit our empathy for strangers?
- How can we train deeper compassion?
A Different Perspective
Empathy can be biased toward in‑group members.