Algernoq comments on Open Thread, May 26 - June 1, 2014 - Less Wrong

4 Post author: BarbaraB 26 May 2014 07:42AM

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Comment author: Algernoq 29 May 2014 11:58:27PM 0 points [-]

While studies of SM are lacking, other activities involving inflicting pain are shown to reduce empathy. Examples include violent video games (study) and fighting in a war (article). I don't have a source for sociability impact beyond my self-interested desire to avoid people who enjoy causing pain.

Comment author: Pfft 30 May 2014 04:09:43AM 2 points [-]

Maybe those are not comparable. E.g. anna anthropy writes

you think about violence differently when it’s asked for, and when the person receiving it is someone that you care about – it has consequences. you start checking in, paying attention to her physical and emotional state.

Comment author: Algernoq 31 May 2014 12:25:45AM 0 points [-]

Makes sense. I wish more people had such self-awareness and empathy!