(Batson 2010)

Benefits of Empathy-Induced Altruism

by C. Daniel Batson

"Empathy-induced altruism offers a number of benefits. Most obvious are the benefits that accrue to individuals whose needs elicit empathic concern, but research suggests that empathy-induced altruistic motivation can also benefit groups in need.

It may even benefit the person experiencing this motivation.

The potential benefits discussed in this chapter are:

• more sensitive, and less fickle help;

• less aggression and derogation of the victims of injustice;

• increased cooperation and care in conflict situations, including conflict in bargaining and negotiations, ethnic, religious, and political conflicts, and racial conflicts in educational settings;

• improved attitudes toward, and action on behalf of, stigmatized groups;

• more positive close relationships, including friendships and romantic relationships;

• and better mental and physical health for the altruistic helper"