One prominent definition of empathy is that it is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. The objective of this course is to offer a multidisciplinary approach to empathy. Topics will include development, definition & effects of empathy, with an additional emphasis on improving empathy individually, community building, and connecting to each other as a class. Throughout this semester, we hope to develop a better understanding of questions such as:
·       How is it that many times we can put ourselves into someone else’s shoes, regardless of whether we know the person or not?
·       When we read fiction or watch certain movies many emotions arise, as if the characters from such stories were real; why is it that we feel such emotions, even though we know the stories are not real?
·       How unique is the human ability to empathize, what is its role in our species, and what facilitates cross-species empathy?

Attendance is mandatory***

There is a final paper, and weekly thought papers based on readings. We will also be exploring meditation as a route towards improving interpersonal skills, with required weekly practice.

This will be our third semester facilitating this DeCal. We are expecting a high volume of applications to be filled. Please, if you're not interested, do not take someone else's chance. With that being said, if you're interested, please fill out the following form. IMPORTANT! Because we have such a high volume of applications, another section will be open. The section will be on Tuesdays from 5-7. In your application, please specify whether you can make it to this section. We are not accepting applications for our Wednesday section. If you have any questions, please e-mail me at: marco.amezcua88@berkeley.edu