Barbara Lazear Aschers on Compassion

In her thought-provoking and poignant 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 Drawing on personal anecdotes, historical references, and philosophical musings, she encourages us to embrace compassion as a fundamental aspect of our humanity, urging us to extend it beyond mere sympathy or pity.

Ascher begins her essay by recounting an encounter with a homeless woman in New York City. This encounter serves as a catalyst for her exploration of compassion, as she grapples with the complexity of emotions it evokes. She describes the woman's appearance in vivid detail, highlighting the contrast between her apparent destitution and the indifference of those around her. Through this vivid imagery, Ascher compels readers to confront their own reactions to the homeless and to question the limits of their compassion.

Throughout the essay, Ascher weaves together various anecdotes and historical references to illustrate the multifaceted nature of compassion. She recounts the story of a man who spontaneously helps a blind woman cross a busy street, emphasizing the instinctual aspect of compassion. This anecdote serves as a reminder that compassion is not limited to grand gestures or altruistic acts but can manifest in small, everyday 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In addition to personal anecdotes, Ascher draws on historical references to explore the philosophical underpinnings of compassion. She references the story of Saint Vincent de Paul, a Catholic saint known for his compassion towards the poor and marginalized. Through this reference, Ascher highlights the long-standing tradition of compassion in religious and ethical teachings. By situating compassion within 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 delves into the complexities of compassion, challenging readers to grapple with its limitations and contradictions. She explores the tension between compassion and self-preservation, highlighting the fear and uncertainty that can arise when confronted 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 perpetuating indifference and to consider the transformative power of compassion.

Throughout her essay, Ascher emphasizes the importance of empathy in fostering compassion. She argues that empathy is the foundation upon which compassion is built, allowing individuals to connect with 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, fostering a sense of shared humanity. She presents empathy as a skill that can be developed through active engagement with others, challenging readers to actively seek out opportunities for connection and understanding.

In conclusion, Barbara Lazear Ascher's essay "On Compassion" offers a compelling exploration of the nature and significance of compassion. Through her vivid storytelling and thoughtful analysis, she challenges readers to reevaluate their understanding of compassion and to consider its potential as a catalyst for social change. By drawing on personal anecdotes, historical references, and philosophical musings, Ascher invites readers to engage in a deep and critical examination of their own capacity for compassion. Ultimately, she reminds us that compassion is not a passive sentiment but a transformative force that has the power to shape our actions and our world.