Compassion is a feeling of deep empathy and understanding for the suffering of others, accompanied by a strong desire to help alleviate that suffering. It is a fundamental aspect of being human and is often seen as one of the highest virtues.
Compassion involves both a cognitive and an emotional component. The cognitive component involves understanding and having insight into the other person’s suffering, while the emotional component involves feeling moved by that suffering and having a desire to help.
Compassion is often distinguished from pity, which involves feeling sorry for someone without necessarily feeling a strong desire to help. Instead, compassion involves actively wanting to do something to alleviate the suffering of others and to support them in their time of need.
Practicing compassion can have many benefits, including improving personal well-being, strengthening relationships, and promoting social connectedness. It can also have a positive impact on the well-being of the person receiving compassion.