Compassion at the Crossroads: Ethics, Emotion & Human Care

Since compassion is often perceived to be a spontaneous humane response to the suffering of another, it may be assumed that compassion ought to be central to healthcare and, indeed, affect both the quality of care and the patient’s wellbeing. Lack of compassion, conversely, may negatively impact patients, weakening resilience and increasing vulnerability. However, overly compassionate care may demand too much of caregivers, resulting in distress and even burnout, usually referred to as "compassion fatigue". In my talk, I will argue that compassion is more than an emotional response resulting from closeness to a patient, or even internalization of that patient’s suffering. Rather, compassion is related to more general ideas of human dignity and solidarity, and functions as a core ethical value in healthcare. The talk will therefore suggest why, on the one hand, compassion is often not fully exercised in healthcare, and why, on the other hand, it is nonetheless of great importance to healthcare professionals.

The presentation will be followed by discussion and drinks. The event is free. Registration required via the website.

This event will take place in accordance with the framework developed by a number of Oxford colleges, including Worcester College, to promote free speech at Oxford. Details of this framework and 'tips' for productive discussion of difficult topics are to be found at: www.worc.ox.ac.uk/fos. By attending this event, attendees agree to adhere to these guidelines and the terms and conditions of the event which uphold Worcester College's commitment to freedom of speech: www.worc.ox.ac.uk/fos/massada-2025