YES! You went straight to the point @leaky : empathy was a key psychological process in the formation and development of clans, groups and families.

This is why I see the view that 'empathy is harmful'as a rather oversimplified one. It has made us what we are (in terms of society). Now that we know better we can reassess things and try to put things right from now on. But then, of course, when it comes to intergourp matters, things can easily become political. It is a different animal.

Until then, we can always put it in place within our families, work places, communities etc :)

Thank you for your kind, thoughtful words. I would like to let you know that despite the proportion of the fire, the flames claimed no lives, and we had heavy rain last Tuesday evening!

I wish you a wonderful weekend.
Take care :*