From Wikipedia on 11-Nov-2012
Kindness is the act or the state of being kind, being marked by good and charitable behavior, pleasant disposition, and concern for others. It is known as a virtue, and recognized as a value in many cultures and religions (see ethics in religion). Research has shown that acts of kindness does not only benefit receivers of the kind act, but also the giver, as a result of the release of neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of contentment and relaxation when such acts are committed.
In philosophy
According to book two of Aristotle’s “Rhetoric” it is one of the (see list of emotions), which is defined as being “helpfulness towards some one in need, not in return for anything, nor for the advantage of the helper himself, but for that of the person helped”.
Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche argued that kindness and love are the “most curative herbs and agents in human intercourse”.
Kindness is considered to be one of the Knightly Virtues.
According to eighteenth century Bohemian philosopher Honza z Žižkova kindness is the most important part of his practical philosophy on deceiving bureaucracy. Kindness is also thought by many to be the lost 11th of the 10 commandments. “Thou shall be merciful and kind to all creatures that roam the fruits of thy land.” Peter IIV
In religion
It is considered to be one of the seven virtues, specifically the one of the Seven Contrary Virtues (direct opposites of the seven deadly sins) that is the direct opposite to envy.
The Talmud claims that “deeds of kindness are equal in weight to all the commandments.”
Paul of Tarsus characterizes love as being “patient and kind…” (I Corinthians).
It is listed as one of the Christian Fruits of the Spirit by Paul of Tarsus in his Letter to the Galatians 5:22, “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
In Buddhism, one of the Ten Perfections (Paramitas) is Mettā, which is usually translated into English as “loving-kindness”. Tenzin Gyatso, 14th Dalai Lama wrote “my religion is kindness” and authored a book entitled “Kindness, Clarity, and Insight”.
Confucius urges his followers to “recompense kindness with kindness.”
Basavanna’s ‘most-quoted saying in Kannada asks, “Where is religion without loving-kindness?”‘