As the US midterm elections arrive, a significant shift in political rhetoric has emerged, transforming the concept of compassion into a point of contention. The current landscape of the US midterm elections empathy debate suggests that what was once considered a foundational moral value is now being reframed by prominent figures as a strategic or societal liability.
The Rise of ‘Suicidal Empathy’ and the Hard Right
A new terminology has entered the political lexicon, spearheaded by figures on the hard right in both the United States and Britain. Robert Jenrick, acting as the Treasury spokesman for the Reform UK party, recently highlighted plans to slash welfare spending by 25% by the year 2030. In his arguments for these cuts, Jenrick utilized the phrase "suicidal empathy" to describe the current state of government benefits related to mental health.
This specific phrasing is traced to a book titled Suicidal Empathy, authored by Canadian academic Gad Saad. The work, which focuses on evolutionary psychology in the context of consumer behavior, has gained significant traction among influential figures. Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, has publicly endorsed Saad’s theories, suggesting that the survival of Western civilization depends on recognizing empathy as a core weakness. Musk has stated, "Western civilisation is doomed unless the core weakness of suicidal empathy is recognised and actions are taken that are hard but necessary for survival."
Polling Data: A Divide in Moral Values
The shift away from empathy is not limited to high-profile commentators; it is reflected in recent data regarding the American electorate. According to research conducted by the Public Religion Research Institute, there is a stark partisan divide on whether empathy is necessary for a healthy society.
- 84% of registered Democrats believe empathy is essential for building a healthy society.
- 54% of Republicans agree with that sentiment, showing a significant drop in support compared to their political counterparts.
- White evangelical Protestants stand out as the only religious group where a majority does not view empathy as a foundational moral value.
Among White evangelical Protestants, only 42% support empathy as a core value, while 54% argue that empathy can actually be dangerous. This sentiment is echoed in recent literature targeting religious audiences, such as Allie Beth Stuckey’s Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion and Joe Rigney’s The Sin of Empathy.
JD Vance and the Theological Conflict
Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, has also become a central figure in this moral revaluation. Vance has recently been at odds with religious leadership, specifically regarding international conflict. When Pope Leo XIV criticized military actions and urged followers of Christ to avoid the path of bombs and swords, Vance responded by suggesting the Pope should be cautious when discussing matters of theology.
JD Vance Christian compassion is defined by a specific hierarchy of priorities. Vance has argued for an "old-school" approach where compassion begins with the family, followed by the immediate community and fellow citizens. According to Vance, global concerns should only be addressed after these domestic priorities are met. This perspective aligns with Elon Musk’s assertion that progressives are currently "exploiting a bug in western civilisation, which is the empathy response."
Historical Context: From Rome to Modernity
To understand the gravity of this shift, some analysts point to the historical origins of empathy in Western culture. Historian Tom Holland, author of Dominion, notes that the emphasis on caring for the vulnerable was a revolutionary departure from the norms of the Roman world. In ancient Rome, the abandonment of infants and the neglect of the infirm were common practices until the rise of Christianity introduced organized social security for orphans, the sick, and the imprisoned.
In the modern political era, this historical foundation is being challenged. In the United Kingdom, the influence of Margaret Thatcher is often cited as a precursor to today’s rhetoric. Thatcher famously remarked in 1980 that the Good Samaritan is remembered not just for his intentions, but because he had the money to help. This focus on economic utility over pure compassion has paved the way for current arguments that frame migrants and welfare recipients through a lens of suspicion rather than care.
The Global Impact of Anti-Empathy Rhetoric
The consequences of this rhetorical shift extend beyond domestic policy. Critics point to the impact of Elon Musk’s influence on international aid, specifically regarding USAID, which some reckon has contributed to 700,000 deaths. As the US midterm elections proceed, the results may determine whether this "moral counter-revolution" continues to gain momentum or if voters will push back against the characterization of empathy as a "bug" or a "sin."
For now, the traditional virtues of kindness and compassion appear to be losing their status in the political arena, replaced by a philosophy that prioritizes strength and national self-interest above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of the term suicidal empathy?
It is a phrase used by politicians like Robert Jenrick and author Gad Saad to describe the idea that excessive compassion toward certain groups can lead to the downfall or economic ruin of Western society.
How do Republicans and Democrats view empathy differently?
Polling shows that 84% of Democrats see empathy as a foundation for a healthy society, whereas only 54% of Republicans agree, with many White evangelical Protestants viewing empathy as potentially dangerous.
What is JD Vance's stance on Christian compassion?
JD Vance advocates for a prioritized version of compassion that focuses first on one's own family, neighbors, and country before extending concern to the rest of the world.