This film explores the extraordinary relevance of empathy in today’s increasingly interconnected world, where conflict and compassion exist in equal measure.
The discovery of mirror neurons – the biological basis for empathy – has led to exciting new experiments, debates and studies about how such knowledge can be applied to understand and enhance human behaviour, whether it is to control violence, facilitate conflict resolution or treat behavioural disorders such as autism.
Based on groundbreaking research already available, educationists have devised programmes to teach empathy in schools to reduce bullying; peace activists are conducting workshops across enemy lines to bring reconciliation; and policy makers have recognized the power of empathy to catalyse societal and political change.