In her poignant and thought-provoking essay, “On Compassion,” Barbara Lazear Ascher explores the concept of compassion and its implications for society. Through vivid storytelling and compelling examples, Ascher challenges readers to reevaluate their understanding of compassion and its role in the human experience. Drawing on personal anecdotes, historical references and philosophical reflections, she encourages us to consider compassion as a fundamental aspect of our humanity, urging us to extend it beyond simple sympathy or pity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Ascher begins his essay by recounting an encounter with a homeless woman in New York. This encounter serves as a catalyst for her exploration of compassion, as she grapples with the complexity of the emotions it evokes. She describes the woman's appearance in great detail, emphasizing the contrast between her apparent destitution and the indifference of those around her. Through these striking images, Ascher forces readers to confront their own reactions to the homeless and question the limits of their compassion. Throughout the essay, Ascher weaves various anecdotes and historical references to illustrate the multifaceted nature of compassion. It tells the story of a man who spontaneously helps a blind woman cross a busy street, emphasizing the instinctive aspect of compassion. This anecdote reminds us that compassion is not limited to grand gestures or altruistic acts, but can be manifested through small, daily acts of kindness. By presenting this example, Ascher challenges readers to reflect on their own capacity for compassion and to consider the ways in which it can be cultivated and expressed. In addition to personal anecdotes, Ascher draws on historical references to explore the philosophical foundations of compassion. It references the story of Saint Vincent de Paul, a Catholic saint known for his compassion for the poor and marginalized. Through this reference, Ascher highlights the long tradition of compassion in religious and ethical teachings. By situating compassion in a broader historical context, she invites readers to consider the moral and ethical dimensions of compassion and its potential as a catalyst for social change. Ascher also explores the complexities of compassion, challenging readers to confront its limitations and contradictions. She explores the tension between compassion and self-preservation, highlighting the fear and uncertainty that can arise when faced with the suffering of others. She describes how individuals often rationalize their lack of compassion by attributing it to factors beyond their control, such as societal structures or personal circumstances. By confronting these rationalizations head on, Ascher encourages readers to examine the ways in which they may be complicit in the perpetuation of indifference and to consider the transformative power of compassion. Throughout his essay, Ascher emphasizes the importance of empathy in fostering compassion. She argues that empathy is the foundation on which compassion is built, allowing individuals to connect to the experiences and emotions of others. By cultivating empathy, Ascher suggests, we can begin to bridge the gap between ourselves and those who are different from us, thereby fostering a sense of shared humanity. It presents empathy as a skill that can be developed through active engagement with others, prompting.