Many people on social media seem to have perfect lives, and seem to be always happy. But is this just a mask they put on, online? Even in many forums people brag about their great lives. Especially on quora, a very pro life site, but it leans liberal. They always seem to be extremely optimistic, and just generally very happy with their lives.
To me it's obvious that people try to portray themselves and their lives as happy. Most people want to brag and be perceived as more successful than others.
But you'd be shocked at what's hiding beneath the surface. I've seen and read confessions you wouldn't believe. Especially from very attractive girls who constantly post beautiful selfies and positive updates. Then in private/secret groups their posts are full of desperation when they vent about the body dysmorphia that doesn't allow them to leave the house, the eating disorders that have been ravaging their bodies for years or even decades, the crippling insecurities that have them passing out on gym equipment from a mix of starvation and overexertion. Then there are the seemingly happy families who always brag about their wonderful kids, their perfect marriage, their stunning vacations. But behind closed doors their lives are ruled by addictions, financial difficulties, or even horrific abuse by their partner.
The point is you can never judge someone's life by what they choose to post on social media.
I guess some people really do have perfect lives?
Well yeah, some people have it all, some have more, some have less and some have nothing.
These people often have a hard time to empathize with people who dont have a perfect life at all. And you often hear many platitududes from them. It i especilly amusing when rich people say things like money doesnt buy happiness. Or money doesnt matter. Of course it doesnt matter if youre very rich. These people are often the same who ask you why dont you just get a nice job? Why dont you just cheer up? Why is it that people with perfect lives have little to no empathy?
I feel like you're conflating two very different aspects here. The amount of empathy someone has ins't necessarily determined by the amount of money in their bank account or by their happiness. Some people want for nothing and do tons of charitable work or go into professions that help people (or animals, or the environment), others are miserable to the point that their bitterness eradicated any and all capacity for empathy.
In general, it's extremely hard for most people to relate to something that they've never experienced. That has to do with understanding, not with empathy imo.
