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The Sacred

Can We Have Empathy in the Face of Evil? With Gwen Adshead

Sep 25, 2024
Dr. Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychologist and psychotherapist, shares her transformative insights on empathy and human complexity. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing our shared humanity, even in the face of evil. Adshead discusses radical compassion, highlighting our interconnectedness and the moral nuances of human behavior. She also delves into the role of spirituality in mental health care, advocating for a compassionate approach that balances understanding with justice. Her perspective encourages listeners to explore the sacred within the darkest human experiences.
55:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Dr. Gwen Adshead emphasizes the importance of recognizing the shared vulnerabilities between victims and perpetrators for a compassionate understanding of human behavior.
  • Her holistic approach to empathy challenges societal stigmas, advocating that treating marginalized individuals with dignity reflects a society's moral health.

Deep dives

The Nature of Sacred Values

Dr. Gwen Adzhead emphasizes the concept of sacredness in everyday life, highlighting virtues such as faith, hope, love, and the sanctity of life. She illustrates that while the mundane aspects of existence, such as human interactions, carry their own sacredness, there exist transcendent values that offer a deeper connection to a greater good. Adzhead discusses how looking for the sacred helps her navigate daily challenges, particularly when faced with human suffering or distress. This approach allows her to maintain a sense of purpose and connection to others, fostering a compassionate response towards those in pain.

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