Moral character

Empathy allows us to gain deeper insights into the perspectives, values, and identities of others, helping us better understand how to address systemic challenges and design ethical solutions that equitably meet the needs of a diverse range of people. Empathy invites us to extend beyond our own perspective and engage sympathetically in care for each other.

There are many ways to develop empathy. Sometimes it happens naturally, through conversation with others and shared experiences. Often, though, we must intentionally work to develop empathy, using methods such as interviews, observations, and in trying our best to step into someone else’s shoes. These activities help us to answer the question, “How would you feel if you were in that person’s place?” Perspective-taking activities like this can help us make an emotional connection with others that can motivate us toward altruism — toward taking action to help others succeed.