The first sign of early empathy is considered to occur when a baby responds to the cry of another nearby baby by crying. This is more common in girls than in boys, and the greater capacity for empathy in females tends to persist at all ages (1).
The capacity for empathy means being able to put ourselves in another's shoes and assess how our actions affect others. If, despite being empathetic, we act solely based on our own self-interest, we are selfish or "bad people." In fact, some despicable practices, such as torture, are based on a heightened capacity to understand how others feel; this is what motivates them and defines those who carry them out. These practices have victims that are not limited to our species and set a terrible example for future generations.
Altruistic people also rely on empathy when helping others. They are able to put themselves in another person's shoes and act as they believe they should, without purely personal motivations.
If we want to contribute to the development of respect in young people, we must also incorporate empathy towards animals. Furthermore, we must bear in mind that studies indicate a lower capacity for empathy in males than in females. This is something that should be counteracted by our education system, not reinforced as is currently the case (2).
A good way for students to understand what empathy is, to act ethically, and to extend empathy to all who can feel is by talking about the empathy of animals, telling anecdotes of animals trying to help others, or showing videos from Interment where animals are seen rescuing others.
It is the role of every teacher to help their students understand that their actions can benefit or harm others and that we must act in the right way.
- De Wall, F. 2005. Our inner Ape. The best and worst of Human nature. Granta Books. Londres
- Newson, J. 2015. The mask you live in.