The Ethics of Empathy: Human Dignity and Compassion
About this program
“The Ethics of Empathy: Human Dignity and Compassion” Date: 6th October 2026 Time: 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm - Introduction and Objectives of the program: Dr Manisha Khanna, DAKSHTAA 4:30 pm to 5:45 pm: Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes: Empathy as the Foundation of Human Dignity Expert: Prof. (Dr.) Dr. Charu Smita Malik, Associate Director, Education and Skills Development, IPE Global Ltd Shimla, Former Assistant Professor, National Centre for School Leadership, National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), New Delhi. 5:45 pm to 7:00 pm: The Invisible Struggles of Others: Empathy and Social Inclusion Expert: Dr. Santosh Pal, Assistant Professor, K. P. Training College, University of Allahabad The Ethics of Empathy — Human Dignity and Compassion Objectives By the end of the session, the participants will be able to: 1. Understand the meaning and significance of empathy, human dignity, and compassion. 2. Recognize the ethical importance of treating every individual with respect, fairness, and dignity. 3. Differentiate between empathy, sympathy, and compassion in personal and professional relationships. 4. Develop awareness of diverse perspectives, experiences, emotions, and needs of others. 5. Examine ethical situations where empathy and compassion can influence decision-making and human relationships. 6. Encourage respectful communication, active listening, and non-judgmental attitudes. 7. Promote responsible and compassionate behaviour in society and the workplace. 8. Reflect on personal attitudes and actions that contribute to or undermine human dignity. Learning Outcomes After completing the program, participants will be able to: • Define empathy, compassion, and human dignity and explain their relationship. • Identify situations in which respect for human dignity is ethically important. • Demonstrate active listening and empathetic communication in interpersonal interactions. • Apply principles of empathy and compassion to common ethical dilemmas and real-life situations. • Recognize and respect differences in people's backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. • Analyze the consequences of insensitive, discriminatory, or dehumanizing behaviour. • Practice compassionate responses while maintaining appropriate ethical boundaries. • Reflect on and improve their own behaviour to foster dignity, inclusion, respect, and compassion. • Develop a commitment to promoting a more humane and respectful environment in personal, academic, and professional settings.