I strongly disagree because if you ignore individual suffering for societal then you're part of the problem, not the solution. Ultimately, each and every individual's suffering is also important in the grnad scheme of things and playing the big numbers game is a losing proposition. Helping those around you is an immediate and important net good which sets a domino effect of potential good from them.Riedquat wrote: ↑Sat Oct 13, 2018 1:39 pmUnfortunately that's not a sentiment I have much time for, the world is full of things that would / wouldn't happen if more people were bothered. Individuals often can't change anything but societies can, but societies are made up of individuals. I don't like being hurt by all the things in the world that I loathe (often things a lot of other people seem to think are great) but I'd rather that than be the type of person who can find a way to not be bothered by them and turn a blind eye.CharlesPhipps wrote: ↑Sat Oct 13, 2018 1:29 pm Religious or not, I think the following statement is very wise, "God grant me the serenity To accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can And the wisdom to know the difference."
Empathy is important but it must always be focused by a humility to know it is part of a much larger world to make better. Good thoughts and deeds form a chain. As bad as the world is today, it is improving (with some occasional backsliding).
Is the world improving? In some areas (meaning both geographical and otherwise), yes, but overall? There may be more concern about ideals relating to people but people themselves we're becoming more and more indifferent to. The amount of contact with other people in day to day life for day to day tasks is diminishing and I'm very concerned about what the consequences of that will be.
Obviously, YMMV.
