Difference Between Sympathy and Empathy
The two terms sympathy and empathy are closely associated with each other. But there is a subtle line of difference which a careful study will prove.
Sympathy is the act of standing by a person in moments of sadness, grief whatsoever. With sympathy one feels sorry for the other person seeing a person crying one has no other alternative but to feel pity for the person concerned. A teacher may feel sympathy for his colleague who has lost his job.
Empathy is the capacity to understand other’s feelings ,in other words it is the identification of one with the other. It is the capacity to place oneself in the position of the one who is struck by grief and such feelings. Empathy is like experiencing and sharing feelings with others. Sympathy is shown to a person who has lost his near and dear ones.
Sympathy is a much easier action than empathy. Sympathy is the expression of grief that is struck by tragedy but empathy is standing by his side and not leaving him alone throughout his turbulent time.
Sympathy and empathy are feelings concerning other people.