The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Empathy

by Heidi L. Maibom (Editor)

Empathy plays a central role in the history and contemporary study of ethics, interpersonal understanding, and the emotions, yet until now has been relatively underexplored. The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Empathy is an outstanding reference source to the key topics, problems and debates in this exciting field and is the first collection of its kind. Comprising over thirty chapters by a team of international contributors, the Handbook is divided into six





Core issues History of empathy Empathy and understanding Empathy and morals Empathy in art and aesthetics Empathy and individual differences.



Within these sections central topics and problems are examined, empathy and imagination; neuroscience; David Hume and Adam Smith; understanding; evolution; altruism; moral responsibility; art, aesthetics, and literature; gender; empathy and related disciplines such as anthropology.



Essential reading for students and researchers in philosophy, particularly ethics and philosophy of mind and psychology, the Handbook will also be of interest to those in related fields, such as anthropology and social psychology.

Genres: Philosophy, Psychology

410 pages, ebook

First published February 8, 2017

About the author

Heidi Maibom is a philosopher (PhD University College London) and Distinguished Professor at the University of the Basque Country and Professor of Philosophy at the University of Cincinnati. She writes about empathy, psychopathy, shame, and responsibility from an interdisciplinary perspective.

Reviews

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Empathy, edited by Heidi Maibom, is an exceptional scholarly resource that reveals the intricate facets of empathy from a philosophical perspective. This comprehensive anthology provides a wealth of knowledge and insightful perspectives, making it an invaluable asset for graduate-level courses and a long-lasting reference book for those pursuing a career in the field.

The Handbook covers a wide range of topics within the philosophy of empathy, presenting a diverse collection of essays written by prominent scholars in the field. The book explores empathy from various philosophical traditions, addressing both theoretical and practical dimensions. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers gain a thorough understanding of empathy's complexities and applications.

Edited by Heidi Maibom, an eminent figure in the field of philosophy of mind and ethics, the Handbook benefits from her expertise and discerning selection of contributors. The editor's guidance ensures a coherent and cohesive collection of essays, resulting in a well-structured and engaging reading experience.

Each chapter in the Handbook offers in-depth analyses and critical examinations of different aspects of empathy. The contributors present rigorous arguments and thought-provoking perspectives, encouraging readers to engage deeply with the subject matter. This level of scholarly rigor makes the Handbook an excellent resource for advanced students and researchers.

The physical version of the Handbook allows for efficient navigation and quick access to specific information. Its clear organization and layout facilitate locating and cross-referencing chapters, making it easier to retrieve relevant content when needed. The tangible nature of the physical book enhances the overall reading experience and enables effective information retrieval.

Owning the physical version enables readers to annotate and mark important passages, creating a personalized and interactive learning experience. These annotations serve as valuable reference points, aiding future exploration and research. The ability to interact physically with the book enhances comprehension and promotes active engagement with the material.

Reading a physical book offers a more comfortable reading experience compared to digital screens. Many readers find prolonged screen time fatiguing and prefer the tactile feel of a physical book. By choosing the physical version, readers can enjoy extended reading sessions without the discomfort associated with screen-related eye strain.

The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Empathy serves as an indispensable resource for graduate-level courses due to its comprehensive coverage and rigorous analysis. Its diverse range of perspectives enriches classroom discussions and fosters a deeper understanding of empathy's philosophical dimensions. Moreover, the book's value extends beyond academia, serving as a valuable reference for professionals working in fields such as psychology, counseling, social work, and ethics.

The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Empathy edited by Heidi Maibom is an outstanding scholarly work that offers comprehensive insights into the philosophical aspects of empathy. Its strengths lie in its diverse content, expert editorship, and rigorous analysis. While the eBook version may have its conveniences, the physical book provides distinct advantages in terms of navigation, annotation, and a more comfortable reading experience. This invaluable resource has proven its worth in my graduate-level course and will continue to serve as a valuable reference book for years to come in my academic and professional pursuits.