Robert Thurman: Expanding your circle of compassion

The video explores the concept of compassion, drawing parallels between Einstein's views and Buddhist psychology. It narrates the story of Saint Asanga's quest for the future Buddha Maitreya, highlighting the importance of compassion. The Sevenfold Causal Method is introduced as a way to cultivate compassion, emphasizing universal responsibility and the joy it brings. The video concludes with a call to practice compassion and take responsibility for others.

What does Einstein suggest is the task of humanity in relation to compassion?

• To focus on personal desires

• To widen our circle of compassion

• To embrace only those closest to us

• To ignore the universe

What realization did Saint Asanga come to after his encounters during his retreat?

• Compassion is unnecessary

• Compassion can be found in everyday experiences

• Compassion is only for the enlightened

• Compassion is a solitary pursuit

What is the first step in the Sevenfold Causal Method of Developing Compassion?

• Universal responsibility

• Visualizing all beings as connected

• Lovely love

• Mother recognition

In the Sevenfold Causal Method, what does 'mother recognition' involve?

• Viewing all beings as family

• Ignoring the suffering of others

• Focusing on personal happiness

• Seeing all beings as strangers

What is the significance of 'lovely love' in the Sevenfold Causal Method?

• It promotes isolation

• It emphasizes the beauty of beings when they are happy

• It focuses on self-love

• It encourages ignoring enemies

What does 'universal compassion' entail according to the Sevenfold Causal Method?

• Ignoring the needs of others

• Recognizing the unhappiness of others

• Focusing solely on personal goals

• Avoiding all forms of compassion

What is the concept of 'universal responsibility' as discussed in the final section?

• Ignoring the suffering of others

• Recognizing our role in the well-being of all beings

• Focusing on material success

• Taking responsibility only for oneself

How does compassion affect personal happiness according to the final section?

• It has no impact on happiness

• It leads to personal joy and fulfillment

• It makes individuals miserable

• It is a burden to carry

What is the ultimate goal of practicing compassion as per the final section?

• To achieve personal success

• To live equally for oneself and others

• To isolate from society

• To focus on material wealth

What does the speaker suggest about the development of compassion?

• It can be cultivated and expanded

• It is only for religious individuals

• It is a fixed trait

• It is irrelevant in modern society