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"