Compassionate Science - Integrating Empathy and Compassion in Research
This project aims to promote a shift towards empathy-driven and human-centered research practices by highlighting and sharing best practices from researchers already integrating compassion into their work and by creating engaging visual tools that inspire young researchers to reflect on the societal impact of their research.
Project group
Current members
Clément Meier (Co-Speaker)
Estefania Cuero (Co-Speaker)
Jovana Milić
Background
Scientific research has long been driven by data, quantifiable outcomes, and institutional pressures, often overlooking the emotional and social dimensions of knowledge production (Rawat & Meena, 2014; Johann et al., 2024). While objectivity and rigour are essential, there is increasing recognition that research must also engage with human experiences in a meaningful way . The absence of empathy and compassion in research processes can create disconnects between researchers and the communities their work seeks to impact (Hansen & Trank, 2016). This gap affects public trust in science, the inclusivity of research methodologies, and the ability of researchers to engage with pressing societal challenges (Ozanne et al., 2017). At the same time, interdisciplinary fields such as participatory research, healthcare communication, and policy development have demonstrated that integrating empathy and compassion leads to stronger societal impact (Cargo & Mercer, 2008). Despite this, there is little practical guidance on how researchers can incorporate these values into their work. Addressing this gap, the Compassionate Science project seeks to inspire and equip young researchers with tools and concrete examples for embedding empathy and compassion into their scientific practices.
Objectives
Promote a shift towards empathy-driven and human-centered research practices.
Highlight and share best practices from researchers already integrating compassion into their work.
Create engaging visual tools that inspire young researchers to reflect on the societal impact of their research.
Disseminate knowledge through a structured online campaign, fostering dialogue and awareness.
Activities
The project will be carried out in three key phases:
Knowledge Synthesis: Identifying 10 researchers across academic and non-academic fields who integrate empathy and compassion into their research. Their insights will be compiled into a report showcasing best practices, supported by a literature review on the role of compassion in research.
Creation of Visual Tools: Producing a series of short video interviews with selected researchers and a central campaign video that effectively communicates the importance of compassionate science. These videos will be designed to engage young researchers and demonstrate practical applications of empathy-driven research.
Knowledge Dissemination: Launching a targeted online campaign via social media, academic networks, and institutional partnerships. The campaign will use the videos and report to spark dialogue, encourage engagement, and make resources accessible to early-career researchers.