Cross-Cultural Differences in Empathy and Relevant Factors

Abstract

This paper aims to discuss cross-cultural empathy and ways to promote the development of empathy in various cultures. Empathy is considered one of the most indispensable traits in every society. However, the concept of empathy differs in different communities, due to social, cultural, and religious influences. According to Mencius, empathy contributes to the expansion of moral cultivation. A core concept in Confucianism, benevolence (Ren), represents the relationship between people. The practice of compassion requires the ability to conduct moral reasoning. The development of such an ability relies heavily on empathy. Since empathy is crucial to people’s daily life in developing critical skills and relationships, fostering empathy in different cultures is helpful. Even though empathy varies significantly in many ways among different cultures, it possesses some fundamental similarities in all of them. The Golden Rule is an excellent example of an ethical principle that could be found in almost all civilizations. Respecting the differences in various cultures, learning more about other cultures and their social norms, and avoiding talking about sensitive topics can help people become more empathetic.