The Metaphysics Of Kindness

Religious world-views reserve a central and prominent place for human moral action, yet they must also contend with the reality of human moral failings. Is it possible to anchor moral knowledge and practice in the framework of a moral universe? If so, how do you explain why things go wrong? Must the religions appeal to faith alone, or can they develop a rational framework for their moral visions? The Metaphysics of Kindness: Comparative Studies in Religious Meta-ethics explores the attempted solutions of four pivotal philosophers from very different traditions: the Neo-Confucian Zhu Xi, the German Idealist Arthur Schopenhauer, the Mahayana Buddhist Santideva, and the progenitor of the Kyoto School, Nishida Kitaro. Each position is investigated sympathetically and independently, yet there is an underlying commonality weaving the different studies together: compassion. Each philosopher treats compassion not only as one virtue among others, but as a kind of meta-virtue, the one that is in some respect the logical and/or psychological basis for all the other virtues. It is also a trait that is both at the heart of human nature, and also somehow at the heart of nature itself.

Caspar Hare presents a bold and original approach to questions of what we ought to do, and why we ought to do it. He breaks with tradition to argue that we can tackle difficult problems in normative ethics by starting with a principle that is humble and uncontroversial. Being moral involves wanting particular other people to be better off.

A comprehensive account of human kindness.

A provocative and elegant defense of the art of kindness in a selfish age, "On Kindness" argues that a life lived in instinctive, sympathetic identification with others is the one societies should allow themselves to live.

It’s time for a kindness revolution. In The Kindness Cure, psychologist Tara Cousineau draws on cutting-edge research in psychology and neuroscience to show how simple practices of kindness—for ourselves, for others, and for our world—can dissolve our feelings of fear and indifference, and open us up to a life of profound happiness. Compassion for ourselves and others is our birthright as humans—hardwired into our DNA and essential to our happiness. But in our fast-paced, technical savvy and hyper competitive world, it may come as no surprise that rates of narcissism have risen, while empathy levels have declined. We now find ourselves in a “cool to be cruel” culture where it’s easy to feel disillusioned and dejected in our hearts, homes, and communities. So, how can we reverse this malady of meanness and make kindness and compassion an imperative? The Kindness Cure draws on the latest social and scientific research to reveal how the seemingly “soft skills” of kindness, cooperation, and generosity are fundamental to our survival as a species. In fact, it’s our prosocial abilities that put us at the head of the line. Blended with moving case studies and clinical anecdotes, Cousineau offers practical ways to rekindle kindness from the inside out. We are wired to care. The very existence of our human species evolved because of an intricate physiology built for empathy, compassion, and cooperation. Yet we have an epidemic of loneliness, indifference, and cruelty, and we see these destructive trends on a daily basis in our families, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces. This important book teaches effective skills in compassion, mindfulness, and social and emotional learning, and reveals successful social policy initiatives in empathy taking place that inform everything from family life to education to the workplace. Kindness has the exponential power to renew relationships and transform how we think, feel, and behave in the world. Will you be a part of the revolution?

“An eloquent reminder of the great truth that life is with people and none of us can be truly human alone.” —Harold S. Kushner, author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People The world has changed in so many ways in recent decades—and as a result, meaningful connections are increasingly elusive. TheCommunity of Kindness encourages us to create new ways of building community through the practice of kindness. It is through that effort that we become most fully connected, alive, and integrated. From the people who brought us Random Acts of Kindness, this insightful book can not only lift your heart, but fill it with the happiness that comes from feeling a sense of connection with the world and people around us.

When we pay attention to our breath, we are learning how to return to, and remain in, the present moment - to anchor ourselves in the here and now on purpose, without judgment. An initiation into subtle understandings: - The elusive essence of equanimity; - The calm clarity of meditation; - The consciousness of our Oneness with all life forms. - Our karmic relationship with all fellow beings. - The philosophy of nonviolence, kindness, and gentleness; - The practical traditions of non-harming conduct; - And many insights and customs of the culture. With abundant illustrations and occasional poetry. To further hint at the delicate, harmonious quality. Carefully encoded here, in wood and ink. This book introduces: - Chapter 1: Meditation - Concepts & Knowledge - Chapter 2: Meditation - Technique & Instruction - Chapter 3: Oneness - Chapter 4: Karma - Chapter 5: Karmic Conduct - Chapter 6: Culture and Practices

This book makes compassionate caring and connectedness the central themes. Imbedded in the human psyche we find a deep yearning for connection. This book explores the many roadblocks that human beings put in the way of a healthy and respectful dialogue with each other, with nature, and with the universe. It also cites numerous examples from literature, philosophy, and society of a reawakening sense of connectedness.

The Miracle of Kindness is more than a book. It is a zealous prayer to ignite people with a passion to brighten the world. Miracles of kindness are happening all around you. If you look for them, you will see them—to your left or right, or even right in front of you. The Miracle of Kindness is a comprehensive illumination of Dr. Kok’s entire vision for the Care and Kindness movement. This handbook will continue to serve as a reference and a valuable resource as you become an “Ambassador of Kindness.” The practical tips provided will equip you to increase your sensitivity to the cares of the people you meet every day. The book is full of care and kindness anecdotes, illustrating how small acts delivered daily can brighten the world. Such behavior is the Spirit of Christ flowing through ordinary souls. A discussion guide draws out the key concepts and stimulates thoughts on how to apply Dr. Kok’s concepts to everyday living. “Jim Kok has made ‘Care and Kindness’ a central theme in his influential ministry, and this book makes it clear why we should all be grateful for that. In a world regularly torn apart by unkind and uncaring acts—both big and small—we need the wisdom contained in this book, with its practical guidance, inspiring examples, and profound reflections on the compassion of God.” —Dr. Richard J. Mouw President and Professor of Christian Philosophy Fuller Theological Seminary

"A book after my own heart!"—His Holiness The Dalai Lama The Power of Kindness is a stirring examination of a simple but profound concept. Piero Ferrucci, one of the world's most respected transpersonal psychologists, explores the many surprising facets of kindness and argues that it is this trait that will not only lead to our own individual happiness and the happiness of those around us, but will guide us in a world that has become cold, anxious, difficult, and frightening. Piero Ferrucci warns against the dangers of "global cooling." As the pace of living grows faster and the impact of new technologies more insistent, communications become hurried and impersonal. The drive for profit overrides the heart. Warmth and genuine presence fade. In eighteen interlocking chapters, Dr. Ferrucci reveals that the kindest people are the most likely to thrive, to enable others to thrive, and to slowly but steadily turn our world away from violence, self-centeredness, and narcissism- and toward love. Writing with a rare combination of sensitivity and intellectual depth, Dr. Ferrucci shows that, ultimately, kindness is not a luxury in our world but rather a necessity for us all.