In her thought-provoking and moving essay, “On Compassion,” Barbara Lazear Ascher explores the concept of compassion and its implications for society. Through vivid narrative 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 Drawing on personal anecdotes, historical references, and philosophical reflections, he encourages us to embrace compassion as a fundamental aspect of our humanity, urging us to extend it beyond simple sympathy or pity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Ascher begins his essay by recounting an encounter with a homeless woman in New York City. This encounter serves as a catalyst for his exploration of compassion, as he grapples with the complexity of the emotions it evokes. He describes the woman's appearance in vivid detail, highlighting the contrast between her apparent destitution and the indifference of those around her. Through these vivid images, Ascher forces readers to confront their own reactions to the homeless and question the limits of their compassion. Throughout the essay, Ascher weaves together various anecdotes and historical references to illustrate the multifaceted nature of compassion. It tells the story of a man who spontaneously helps a blind woman cross a busy street, underlining the instinctive aspect of compassion. This anecdote serves as a reminder that compassion is not limited to grand gestures or altruistic acts, but can manifest itself 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 In addition to personal anecdotes, Ascher draws on historical references to explore the philosophical underpinnings of compassion. It references the story of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic saint known for his compassion towards the poor and marginalized. Through this reference, Ascher highlights the long tradition of compassion in religious and ethical teachings. Situating compassion in a broader historical context, it 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 limits and contradictions. It explores the tension between compassion and self-preservation, highlighting the fear and uncertainty that can arise when faced with the suffering of others. It describes how individuals often rationalize their lack of compassion by attributing it to factors outside their control, such as social structures or personal circumstances. By addressing these rationalizations head-on, Ascher encourages readers to examine the ways they may be complicit in perpetuating indifference and to consider the transformative power of compassion. Throughout his essay, Ascher emphasizes the importance of empathy in promoting compassion. He argues that empathy is the foundation on 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. It presents empathy as a skill that can be developed through active engagement with others, challenging readers to actively seek opportunities for connection and understanding. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Customize essayIn conclusion, Barbara Lazear Ascher's essay.