I like the back & forth he has with Harris, speaking of the new atheist movement.. they’re diametrical opposites, yet seem to be generating answers to difficult and pressing (philosophical) matters and even became close friends through their discussions.
I would add, a capacitity for long term thinking/vision to that also. Compassion for instance is a wonderful human trait, but if its applied to forms of instant gratification it quickly spirals down to harm. But yeah. Fairness over equality or tradition any time.
Long term thinking and vision, definately yes. Im a bit lost with how compassion is applied to instant gratification dude? That sounds more like passion.
A example of applying compassion wrongly would, for my part as a father be for instance: Giving my kids candy whenever they ask for it, instead of it being a genuine reward for something...and cry/ act up when they don't get it.
I know what you are saying. I think the true compassionate thing in the example youve mentioned would be to withhold the candy unless it is merited. But off course given some situations this can lead to mayhem depending on the children. Life I’m afraid is seldom black and white.
The rule of thumb I apply is: “does it promote wellbeing for the future vs (just) the present?”
