Empathy
“It means recognising that here is another solitary
entity, tossed by fate into the same world as ourselves who, if you prick it,
bleeds, who if you prod it, squirms, who if you feed or flatter it experiences
an emotion of tearful gratitude…For the moment we allow any reasoning, however rational, to contradict that Categorical
Imperative in favour of mercy and pity and chivalry which brings with it the
sense that it comes from outside Time and Space, we are traitors to the Conscience of Humanity; though no doubt
we may reap many furtive rewards as frantic servants of an hideous and inhuman
Idol.”
(John Cowper Powys, Mortal Strife)
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