I looked at this article as a simple case study in being compassionate.<p>For me, learning to be compassionate has been a pretty big deal.  While it is clearly great from a moral perspective, even from a selfish perspective it provides value.  Just like the article states, it greatly improves communication and cooperation.  Beyond that though, being compassionate makes me feel good.<p>I definitely recommend practicing compassion, particularly if you tend to be naturally critical, judgmental or cynical.