What is compassion? Why is caring for the weak for society and each person important?

Compassion is the ability to empathize with the weaker. In the modern world, this is a very important quality, because it allows the weakest, the most helpless, to survive, be they the elderly or the sick. Taking care of the weak is essential for society; compassion distinguishes Homo sapiens from animals.
It is important for each person to show compassion, not to stand aside when someone asks for help, then the whole world as a whole will become kinder.