In a divided world, empathy is not the solution, it is the problem; a source of prejudice, not kindness. As the latest research shows, we feel empathy most for those we find attractive and who seem similar to us. Empathy therefore biases us in favour of individuals we know, while numbing us to the plight of thousands. Brilliantly argued, this book argues that we must choose reason and compassion over empathy. This landmark scientific investigation reveals empathy to be our most dangerous emotion.