The number 1 source of information for the global compassion movement!
There are many new ideas on this web site. They are to be considered the intellectual property of W. David Hoisington, Ph. D., unless another author is cited. Please cite the author, date and website when using this information in other documents.
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Seeking a better Compassion Definition
Why study compassion? Why should we talk about it with others? You either have it or you don't - right? No amount of study or discourse is going to change that, at least that has been the argument presented. If you are seeking to promote the development of compassion in society then you also need to promote the study and discourse about compassion. Here are some reasons why.
Developing a Communal Discourse
Moving toward a Science of Compassion
It is common sense that all people do not display the same level of compassion. From that one can infer that people do not define compassion the same way. This is also easily supported by looking on the internet at the range of compassion definitions. If we are to simply use the term compassion, whether individually or through the media, we should come to some understanding about its definition. Good research and good teaching about compassion will need a good definition.
We can shift from personal conjecture to a science of compassion. Moving toward a science doesn't mean that we remove the heart of compassion but rather that we move toward developing some common grounds upon which to study and teach compassion.
Compassion will not flourish in a vacuum. We will not move toward a more compassionate society if we are all silent about compassion. In promoting the study of compassion we are promoting the development of compassion in society by providing information that can be used in discourse.
The Reduction of Suffering
There is suffering in everyone's lives. Compassion is about the relief of suffering. The more we can learn about compassion the more able we are to assist in the relief of suffering.
Developing Strong Compassion
In order to continually face the suffering of the world, both in our own lives and in others, we need to develop strong compassion. The study of compassion can provide all of us information that we can use to promote our own strong compassion. It is also information that we can use to teach. Training is quite helpful when seeking to develop strong compassion.
Healthy Friendships and Relationships
We are social beings and relationships are important to our well being. When these relationships are compassionate it promotes not only our personal well being but also the well being of others. The study of compassion helps us to discover how to be in healthy and rewarding relationships.
Yet to be added link to social networking site that links scholars and teachers to the community for engaging in open discourse
