“All languages that derive from Latin form the
word "compassion" by combining the prefix meaning "with" (com-) and the
root meaning "suffering" (Late Latin, passio). In other languages,
Czech, Polish, German, and Swedish, for instance - this word is
translated by a noun formed of an equivalent prefix combined with the
word that means "feeling".
In languages that derive from Latin,
"compassion" means: we cannot look on coolly as others suffer; or, we
sympathize with those who suffer. Another word with approximately the
same meaning, "pity", connotes a certain condescension towards the
sufferer. "To take pity on a woman" means that we are better off than
she, that we stoop to her level, lower ourselves.
That is why the
word "compassion" generally inspires suspicion; it designates what is
considered an inferior, second-rate sentiment that has little to do with
love. To love someone out of compassion means not really to love.”
Milan Kundera
