“Reducing our own pain is also reducing empathy for pain in others”

Wow.  Without intending to do it, of course, this article actually provokes some theological reflections in me:

https://medienportal.univie.ac.at/presse/aktuelle-pressemeldungen/detailansicht/artikel/reducing-our-own-pain-is-also-reducing-empathy-for-pain-in-others/

I need to learn more about the study upon which it’s based, but it seems to me to have some potential bearing upon the purpose of our entire learning experience here in mortality.

And perhaps it’s not unconnected with the incarnation and atonement of the Savior himself:

And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God.

And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.

And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.  (Alma 7:10-12)

Posted from New York City