Why wouldn't it? If you really want to be pessimistic about empathy, you can rationalize it as information-gathering. Being empathetic and understanding as to w

Why wouldn't it? If you really want to be pessimistic about empathy, you can rationalize it as information-gathering. Being empathetic and understanding as to why your opponent feels the way they do only helps you frame a better argument in future battles. I see no downside to empathy.