Before I learned more of your context of what "idiot compassion" was/is, I formerly associated it with the concept of enabling poor behaviors through compassion.
For example, it is (is it?) idiot compassion to patronize a person whose mental problems are spiraling out of control by giving into their demands (intentionally or not), even if you persist in telling them that with enough hard work, they can overcome their problems.
Yet despite all of your admonitions and encouragement, you cannot do the hard work of sitting for them; that person continues to spiral out of control despite your own best efforts of comforting and advising them, hurting themselves and other people because they cannot directly tune into your perspective on life.
At least, that was my personal experience. I'm sure anyone reading has figured that out by now.
By the way, I think your example of giving money to the homeless is excellent.
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For example, it is (is it?) idiot compassion to patronize a person whose mental problems are spiraling out of control by giving into their demands (intentionally or not), even if you persist in telling them that with enough hard work, they can overcome their problems.
Yet despite all of your admonitions and encouragement, you cannot do the hard work of sitting for them; that person continues to spiral out of control despite your own best efforts of comforting and advising them, hurting themselves and other people because they cannot directly tune into your perspective on life.
At least, that was my personal experience. I'm sure anyone reading has figured that out by now.
By the way, I think your example of giving money to the homeless is excellent.
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