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Emotion Quote by Adam M. Grant

“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.” quote by Adam M. Grant
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““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.””

Adam M. Grant

About This Quote

Source Speech: TED Talk, Adam Grant, 2019

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.

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