Practicing Empathy: Pragmatism and the Value of Relations

Mark Fagiano offers a unified theory of empathy that includes rival definitions and resolves the problem of conflicting definitions by distinguishing between the three kinds of empathy: the relations of feeling into, feeling with, and feeling for. His pragmatic and contextualist philosophy of empathy provides a valuable starting point for answering questions about empathy, including whether it can be developed, moral, and the difference between empathy and sympathy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The concept of empathy is a subject of widespread debate, with differing perspectives on what it truly encompasses. In his comprehensive study, Mark Fagiano acknowledges the ambiguity surrounding the term and presents a unified theory of empathy that incorporates rival definitions. Through a historical account of the diverse meanings of empathy, Fagiano establishes the foundation for a novel philosophical framework.

Based on the concept of relations, Fagiano's theory distinguishes between three types of empathy: relations of feeling into, relations of feeling with, and relations of feeling for. These categories have been defined historically as distinct forms of empathy. By focusing on the modes and manner in which we connect with things and people, Fagiano offers a transactional account of empathy that can be applied to a wide range of contexts and social situations.

Rooted in the philosophical tradition of American Pragmatism, Fagiano's approach demonstrates the practical advantages of adopting a broad and pluralistic understanding of empathy as both an idea and a practice. His pragmatic and contextualist philosophy of empathy provides a valuable starting point for addressing some of the most pressing questions surrounding empathy today, such as whether empathy can be developed, whether it is moral, and what distinguishes empathy from sympathy.

In conclusion, Mark Fagiano's study of empathy offers a profound exploration of its value and moral features. By presenting a unified theory that incorporates rival definitions and emphasizes the role of relations, Fagiano provides a valuable contribution to the philosophical discourse on empathy. His pragmatic and contextualist philosophy of empathy offers practical insights and a framework for understanding empathy in a broader range of social contexts. As we continue to grapple with the complexities of empathy, Fagiano's work serves as a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners alike.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350281707