Adam Smith, the author of The Wealth of Nations, believed that “empathy is an intellectual activity that takes into account circumstances, motives, luck, social status, and human character of the person.” The moment we blame another person’s actions, we examine the appropriateness of those actions. Adequacy is a state of neither excess nor understatement. If everyone else thinks a person is bad but I advocate for that person by saying, “I can understand,” then I approve of their actions. This situation is called “mutual sympathy.” In our lives, we can be egocentric in some cases and relation-centric in others. The more mutual sympathy exists, the more relationship-oriented our thinking becomes. Both too much and too little can lead to tiredness or dissatisfaction. Pursuing happiness means finding this adequacy. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Most of the time, experts are individuals who make a living by simplifying complex concepts. In other words, an expert serves as a commentator or interpreter. Positions that readily clarify intricate topics often exist in fields filled with conflict or dissatisfaction, as well as those that engage in productive activities. Lawyers and politicians represent the former category, while media professionals belong to the latter. The degrees of difficulty in complexity frequently create a demand for certain jobs, which also presents a business opportunity. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”