There are some things that all human beings have in common. One of these -- perhaps the most important -- is the capacity for suffering. We have it in our power to diminish immeasurably the sum of suffering and misery in the world, but we shall not succeed in this while we allow opposite irrational beliefs to divide the human race into mutually hostile groups.
Source： Bertrand Russell: Human Society in Ethics and Politics, 1954, part II: The Conflict of Passions, chapter 9: Steps topwards a stable peace, n8
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Mechanical equality is not only impossible but also undesirable. However, unless we make efforts to eliminate as much as possible the unfair or irrational forms of inequality, society will become increasingly divided and unstable. This applies not only at the level of individuals, but also at the level of nations.
To eliminate such inequalities, we need the capacity to empathize with those who are suffering. Russell’s words today emphasize the importance of “the capacity to feel the suffering of others” or “the ability to feel human suffering.” In stark contrast to this, we see the attitude of President Trump. He not only seems to lack the ability to feel the suffering of others, but also appears unaware that he lacks it. Or is he simply adopting a ruthless posture in order to win a deal?
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