It's in the Code ep 146: “Empathy is…What, Exactly?”
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May 14, 2025
In this discussion, the speakers dive into the rising fears around empathy within right-wing Christian circles, spotlighting Allie Beth Stuckey's concept of 'toxic empathy.' They dissect the differences between healthy empathy and its toxic counterpart, exploring how empathy can be misconstrued in progressive discourse. The complexities of empathy's relationship with morality and spirituality are examined, alongside cultural pressures affecting emotional responses in Christian communities. This enlightening dialogue challenges listeners to reconsider what empathy truly means.
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insights INSIGHT
Empathy Means Perspective Taking
Empathy involves understanding another's perspective or "being in their shoes."
This foundational empathy can lead to various emotional responses, not always sympathetic.
insights INSIGHT
Toxic Empathy Defined and Critiqued
Toxic empathy means not just understanding but affirming and validating others' feelings.
This concept is portrayed as a political tool used to manipulate conservative Christians.
insights INSIGHT
Empathy vs Sympathy Distinction
Empathy and sympathy are distinct: empathy is understanding feelings, sympathy is sharing them.
Conflating these terms masks empathy's real value and oversimplifies emotional responses.
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Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion
How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion
Allie Beth Stuckey
In "Toxic Empathy," Allie Beth Stuckey dissects the manipulative tactics employed by progressives to exploit Christian compassion for their political agenda. Stuckey argues that this "toxic empathy" often leads to a disregard for truth and morality. The book provides a framework for understanding how progressive narratives are constructed and disseminated. Stuckey equips readers with the tools to critically analyze these narratives and engage in more effective conversations. Ultimately, the book aims to empower readers to defend their beliefs and engage in constructive dialogue.
The Sin of Empathy
Compassion and Its Counterfeits
Joe Rigney
In this book, Joe Rigney argues that while empathy is often seen as a virtuous trait, it can also be a tool for manipulation and a source of harm. Rigney distinguishes between empathy and sympathy, suggesting that empathy involves joining people in their darkness and distress without making judgments, whereas sympathy involves showing compassion while maintaining a sense of boundaries and truth. He discusses how unregulated empathy can lead to emotional blackmail, selectivity, and cruelty, and how it has been exploited in various contexts, including under the progressive gaze and within feminist and church settings. The book emphasizes the importance of genuine compassion that is grounded in truth and justice.
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Those on the American political and religious right increasingly warn against the dangers of excessive empathy. The problem with America, they assert, stems from empathy run amok. One such voice on the right is that of Allie Beth Stuckey, who warns us of the supposed dangers of “toxic empathy.” But what is empathy? Why is it perceived to be such a threat? What is “toxic” empathy? And why are Christian conservatives so threatened by empathy? In this first episode in a series devoted to Stuckey’s book, Dan takes on these and other questions. Listen in to join the conversation!
Straight White American Jesus 
