This is one of the very few places where I’m not sure we agree. I agree, someone who is really different from others will have a harder time getting the empathy ball rolling. But I still think self-understanding is utterly critical. It’s the only way you can control for projection.
I agree, I should’ve emphasized that finding a proxy is supplementary to self-understanding, not an alternative.
There’s also the fact that some people identify with being unusual or different, but such people usually exaggerate their differences more than is justified.
Very much agree. This issue is especially prominent in societies that idealize individualism. Looking back, I think I should’ve edited out the caveat, not because I disagree with my past self, but because it may inhibit some readers from questioning their self-proclaimed differences.
Glad you liked the post.
I agree, I should’ve emphasized that finding a proxy is supplementary to self-understanding, not an alternative.
Very much agree. This issue is especially prominent in societies that idealize individualism. Looking back, I think I should’ve edited out the caveat, not because I disagree with my past self, but because it may inhibit some readers from questioning their self-proclaimed differences.