True Empathy and the Myth of Self-Esteem

Alexander Light – The definition of empathy is simple. Is the ability to feel what others feel.

FuturamaParadoxically, the simplicity of this concept has led it to be absurdly misunderstood. Here you will find why, will find what true empathy is, and when self-esteem becomes only a panacea.

Maybe you remember that episode of Futurama when Bender was implanted with an integrated circuit (nailed into his head with a hammer) in order for Bender to feel what Leela felt. It was funny.

This plot constitutes a faithful portrait of the standard concept of empathy – that somehow it’s an ability that people gain that can be attained as easily as tuning frequencies in a device.

Misuses of the empathy concept

In our occidental and capitalist culture, many concepts and ideas have been adapted to the production lifestyle. Spirituality itself has in some instances become an industrial product driven by supply and demand. There are gurus, lecturers, authors, YouTubers, and a whole world of trends related to geek spirituality, mostly directed to motivate people and inspire them to success, triumph and ego worship. Continue reading