Empathy and politeness are the glue that holds society together.

Look around, with that in mind, and the world we're living in makes a little more sense in its senselessness.

I am an empath. It can be exhausting and I often neglect myself. However, it is a quality I value in myself and others.

I think empathy is incredibly important. To be without empathy is to be a sociopath.

Empathy is very important. IMO if we are to survive as a nation we need to care for the sick, find jobs for the unemployed, educate our youth, and elevate the life experience of the poor.

I have a friend who has been an interesting experience for me: he's not empathic. He's not insensitive and cares a lot, and will certainly be hurt by negative emotions coming his way, but he can't "read" people like I can. At first this threw me, and he would say things that would typically wound me under other circumstances but he was just being frank. However, we've both adjusted and utilize our words more than we normally would. I've learned to verbally express my emotions so he'll understand, and he'll ask me to explain if he knows he's not getting something, but wants to know. It's been quite interesting.

Yes I have it and an ideal male partner would haveit also.

I do. I feel the world would be a better place if everyone had the ability to put themselves in other people's shoes before taking some action. Thinking before acting and being able to be empathetic is hugely important, imho, in just being a decent human being.

It's the single most important aspect of humanity in my opinion. I couldn't date anyone who was devoid of empathy.

Value. When asked how I can have morality without god....I inevitably answer that my empathy for others directs my moral compass

I think it's massively important, it's just the golden rule after all.
Imagine if our level of empathy was part of our daily life, if we added it as part of our personal values: looks, wealth, humour, intelligence etc, let's add empathy. Imagine the change it would make to politics and government.

It's crucial to human interaction. No healthy society is possible without it.

Another thought :
One must have the strength to look and the wisdom to walk away.
....or.....
The wisdom to look and the strength to walk away.
Empathy is good, and important.
Knowing the limitations of ability when experiencing it is crucial.
ie: you can't save everything or everyone.
....
Friend once said "I feel for ya, but I just can't reach".
Another one said " I'm smellin the shit yer standin' in"

Empathy is or should be a core

I believe the level of empathy one shares comes from a sense of connection to either the individual, the community, or the situation regardless of the first person association. Empathy is what drives us to enjoy our TV shows, our music and our relationships. So I'd have to say 100% yes. Now, the practice of expressing empathy is far more difficult in a society of 'Us vs Them' mind set that is taught. This world would be a better place if we all shared a little more empathy with one another.

Empathy is crucial in any relationship and must be a part of the culture of any caring society.

"Empathy" is what pedophiles, rapists & serial killers lack.Without it people are no more than animals.

I think empathy to a healthy level is justified. Part of the joy in life is connecting with those around you. I find you can’t truly understand people’s life decisions without empathy for others pain. I also think in a relationship it’s very important. However, You can not let your empathy get in the way of your wellbeing

Very. And no, at least not a civilized/moral society...

Of course I value empathy!

Psychopathy is marked by impulsivity, an absence of guilt over hurting others, and often superficial charm. Psychopaths are usually described as lacking empathy, and a new study reveals the neurological basis for this dearth of feeling.Sep 24, 2013

Blame the Brain: Why Psychopaths Lack Empathy - Live Science
[livescience.com]

Yes l do. No.

Empathy exists even in many non-sentient species so it's not a part of society but life itself at some stage of development. Empathy is not an option. Watch Equilibrium with Christian Bale, great movie about removing emotions.

I think people are selectively empathetic.
Same with other moralistic notions.
We choose when to place them, or cast aside.
Also think the term sociopath is tossed about far too lightly.
Most exhibit sociopathic traits to some extent - it's almost required to live - but sociopath should be reserved for those who truly become it - Bundy, Dahmer, etc.

I value it and I think it is important for others to as well. And we could survive without it as a society, but we wouldn’t be making much progress for our human flourishing.

Extremely. No.