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In the realm of contemporary social issues, homelessness remains a persistent and deeply troubling problem. Two compelling essays, "On Compassion" by Barbara Lazear Ascher and "Homeless" by Anna Quindlen, delve into the human aspects of homelessness, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals without stable housing. While Ascher examines the development of compassion through personal experiences and societal interactions, Quindlen explores the idea that homelessness can befall anyone, emphasizing the shared humanity of the homeless. This essay will critically analyze and compare the central themes, narrative techniques, and rhetorical strategies employed by both authors to elucidate the nature of homelessness and compassion.
In "On Compassion," Barbara Lazear Ascher presents a thought-provoking exploration of compassion as a learned behavior rather than an innate trait.
Ascher uses three compelling scenarios to illustrate her thesis, each highlighting the transformative power of compassion in ordinary encounters.
The first scenario depicts a man receiving a dollar bill from a woman while walking down the street.
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“ Amazing as always, gave her a week to finish a big assignment and came through way ahead of time. ”
This simple act of kindness, however, raises questions about the motivations behind such gestures. Is it genuine compassion, or is fear driving these actions? Ascher's subtle narrative suggests that fear, stemming from the undeniable presence of homelessness in our daily lives, plays a significant role in motivating these acts of charity. However, she ultimately argues that true compassion is cultivated through a series of life experiences and events, challenging the notion that individuals are inherently compassionate.
The second scenario introduces us to a man who receives bread and coffee from the owner of a café.
As the café owner extends this goodwill, the boundaries between compassion and fear become blurred. The act itself may be seen as an attempt to alleviate discomfort or unease, stemming from the presence of homelessness in the immediate vicinity. Ascher's exploration invites readers to reflect on the motivations behind acts of kindness, ultimately underscoring the idea that compassion is a learned response to the world around us.
The third and final scenario involves the mayor of New York City, who relocates the homeless population into hospitals. This action, driven by concerns for public health and safety, raises questions about the underlying motivations behind such decisions. Is it genuine compassion for the homeless, or is it a response to societal pressures and concerns about public perception? Ascher's narrative challenges us to consider the complexities of compassion within the context of public policy and governance, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the motivations driving societal actions.
In "Homeless," Anna Quindlen introduces us to a homeless woman named Ann, whose life becomes a poignant illustration of the interconnectedness of humanity. Quindlen embarks on a mission to explore homelessness and is met with a surprising encounter. Ann, the homeless woman she encounters, defies the stereotypical image of homelessness by showing Quindlen pictures of her former home, challenging Quindlen's preconceived notions about the homeless.
Quindlen's central thesis asserts that the homeless were once just like us, leading lives that were indistinguishable from our own. This notion forces readers to confront their biases and preconceived judgments about homeless individuals. Ann's story serves as a powerful reminder that homelessness can befall anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. Quindlen effectively humanizes the homeless population, erasing the lines that separate "us" from "them."
Both Ascher and Quindlen address the issue of homelessness from distinct perspectives, yet their essays converge on the overarching theme of compassion and the shared humanity of the homeless. Ascher's exploration of compassion as a learned behavior complements Quindlen's assertion that the homeless were once like any of us. Together, these perspectives provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics of homelessness and the role of compassion in addressing this societal challenge.
While Ascher focuses on individual acts of compassion and their underlying motivations, Quindlen broadens the scope to challenge societal perceptions of homelessness. Ascher's scenarios demonstrate how fear often masquerades as compassion in everyday interactions with the homeless. Quindlen, on the other hand, dismantles stereotypes by showcasing Ann's previous life and emphasizing that homelessness is not a condition reserved for a specific demographic.
Ascher and Quindlen share a common belief that compassion is a response to the realities we encounter. Ascher suggests that compassion is learned through experiences and events that shape our mindset, while Quindlen insists that acknowledging the shared humanity of the homeless is the first step toward fostering compassion.
In conclusion, Barbara Lazear Ascher's "On Compassion" and Anna Quindlen's "Homeless" provide valuable insights into the multifaceted issue of homelessness and the nature of compassion. Ascher's exploration of individual interactions with the homeless challenges us to scrutinize our motivations and consider the role of fear in acts of charity. Quindlen, through the story of Ann, dismantles stereotypes and reminds us that homelessness can befall anyone.
Together, these essays compel us to reevaluate our perceptions of homelessness and recognize the shared humanity that unites us all. They highlight the importance of cultivating compassion, whether as individuals or as a society, to address the challenges faced by the homeless population. As we continue to grapple with the issue of homelessness, it is crucial to heed the lessons imparted by Ascher and Quindlen and strive for a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Compassion and Homelessness: A Comparative Analysis. (2016, May 16). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/on-compassion-and-homeless-essay
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