Hard-heartedness

Hard-heartedness is a character trait marked by a lack of sympathy, compassion, and empathy towards others. It manifests as an inability or unwillingness to understand or share the feelings of others, often leading to coldness, indifference, and cruelty. Individuals exhibiting hard-heartedness may appear emotionally detached, unresponsive to suffering, and prone to making decisions that prioritize self-interest over the well-being of others. It stems from various causes, including trauma, personality disorders, learned behaviors, or a general insensitivity. The consequences of hard-heartedness can be severe, leading to strained relationships, social isolation, and the perpetuation of suffering.

Hard-heartedness meaning with examples

• The CEO's hard-heartedness was evident when he laid off hundreds of employees without offering any severance, prioritizing profit margins over the livelihoods of his staff. His actions drew sharp criticism from both the media and the public. Many saw his decision as a blatant disregard for human suffering and a sign of corporate greed. People struggled to cope with the effects of his decision.
• After witnessing the homeless person begging for food, his initial reaction showed a lack of compassion, a hard-heartedness that disturbed his friend. It revealed a lack of empathy, a refusal to acknowledge the suffering of others. His friend, who had experience with the same issues, tried to convince him to help and donate whatever he could, but he was unwilling.
• The king's hard-heartedness was displayed through his unwavering pursuit of expansion, marked by relentless wars and subjugation. His advisors struggled to convince him to consider peace treaties but he was determined. Those who stood in his way suffered immensely, their lives and lands sacrificed for his ambitions. Those decisions caused many to suffer and to be killed.
• Growing up in an environment of neglect and abuse, she developed a degree of hard-heartedness as a defense mechanism. Her inability to trust anyone and her reluctance to form close relationships were evidence of this emotional barrier. This made it difficult for her to connect with others and accept their offers to help. She found it difficult to let people into her life.
• The judge's reputation for hard-heartedness made him feared by both prosecutors and defense attorneys alike, they felt it was impossible to influence the decision. He applied the law with unyielding severity, showing little leniency even in cases of genuine hardship. His sentencing became legendary for its harshness, making it difficult to get a fair judgement.