I've believed this for quite a while now. It's as if people have been 'dumbed down' or simply lost the energy or courage to stand on our own, and just decide where they are or how they feel on any subject.

I also feel empathy IS confused for pity.

Thanks for a good read...and a good reminder that empathy is another muscle we need in our lives for spiritual balance. And like a muscle it has to be exercised before it atrophies.