Claire Yorke
is
a Henry A. Kissinger Postdoctoral Fellow at International Security Studies
and the Jackson Institute for Global Affairs at Yale University. Her
research explores the role and limitations of empathy and emotions in
international affairs and diplomacy. Claire wrote an
article/paper titled,
The Significance and Limitations of Empathy in Strategic Communications.
"This article examines the varied dynamics of empathy
through the lens of American politics at domestic and international
levels. It argues that empathy is a multifaceted and complex concept with
transformative power, but also with practical and political limitations,
which deserves far greater attention from strategic communications
practitioners."
ABSTRACT
Empathy is increasingly seen as integral to effective strategy, offering
solutions to policy failures and new ways to achieve strategic and
operational success. Despite its softer connotations, empathy is hard,
requiring strategists to confront misperceptions and false assumptions,
and overcome individual egos and national hubris. This article reviews
the literature, examining some of the gaps and costs incurred. Whilst
strategic empathy may have transactional and instrumental connotations,
it suggests that the concept holds greater potential to transform
strategy. Used wisely, it offers an ethos and means to put people first,
foster greater security, and offer innovative approaches to contemporary
challenges.
3. Case Study One: Germany, Refugees and the Migration Crisis
4.
Case Study Two: Brexit and the UK’s Decision to Leave the European
Union
5. Case Study Three: New Zealand’s Response to Terrorism
6.
Conclusion: Empathy as a Variable Asset References
Abstract
Defined as an attempt to understand the experiences, feelings, and
perspectives of another, and emphasizing the benefits of genuine human
connection, the importance of empathy has been extolled by political
leaders including former President Barack Obama, and current Prime
Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern. Yet it is no panacea, and its
benefits may be subjective, dependent on diverse perspectives of who it
benefits, and at what cost. More work needs to be done to understand its
complexity and how it interacts with the imperatives and challenges of
politics and public discourse.
