The Erosion of Empathy: Experiencing the Desensitization of Modern Society Up Close

A few years ago, I needed to make a quick stop at Target to pick up a few things. On my way to the entrance, I noticed a woman on the floor, trying to pick things up. When I reached her, I was confused because there was nothing on the ground for her to pick up. Then it dawned on me that she was struggling to pick herself up. I instantly asked if it was okay for me to help her, and she said, "I tripped over the floor runner, and I can't seem to pick myself up." I reached down, gripped her gently but firmly under her arm, and together we got her back on her feet.

My emotions were churning because I couldn't believe the number of people who walked past her as she struggled to right herself. I was so concerned for her that I was ready to spend my Target time helping her get whatever she needed. If you are a Target goer, then you know I told myself I was going to pick something up real quick but real quick means at least one hour.  But she politely turned me down and said she just needed to return a mug that was chipped. I asked if I could assist her to the return lane, and she agreed. As we walked slowly there, she explained that she struggled with multiple sclerosis and still tried to get around on her own while she still could. With the sound of frustration in her voice, she reiterated that she was doing fine until she tripped and couldn't get back up.

Once the cashier acknowledged she was ready to help with her return, I asked once more if she would like me to stay with her, and she again declined. We told each other to have a blessed day, and I walked right past all the items I needed to find an empty aisle to let my tears fall. I didn't know if I was more hurt by her condition and quality of life or the condition of the many humans who walked past her as she struggled to stand up on feet that were no longer as sturdy and sure as they once were.

This experience left me pondering the state of human empathy and connection in today's society. How have we become so desensitized and indifferent to the struggles of others? Is this erosion of empathy a recent development, or has it been creeping up on us gradually? To explore these questions, we must delve into the current state of empathy, the factors contributing to its decline, and the societal implications of this troubling trend.

Modern Society: The State of Empathy

Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, should be a human trait that we all have that allows us to cultivate relationships and make connections with one another. The University of Michigan conducted a study on about 14,000 students from 1988 to 2011 where they found there was a 40% decline in empathy within them. What?! Watching how people walked past the lady struggling to get up, it has me thinking that nothing was done with those study results and things have continually declined from there.

Psychology Today wrote an article about compassion fatigue and how being constantly exposed to negative news and images also further desensitizes people to the point they’re not bothered by the suffering of others. Can you imagine seeing troubles and tribulations occurring to others and shrugging your shoulders as to say, “Oh well, not my problem”? Are we really out here overloading our senses with so much negativity that we are no longer phased by the ugliness, and we are allowing the atrocities around us to go unchecked? Where is the internal meter that should be within us all that says, “Wait, this isn’t right”, or “I need to stand up and say something, do something.”

If only we could come together collectively to turn our empathy state around because if we can’t, would we become like machines, robots void of feelings and emotions just walking through life just breathing but not actually living? 

Factors Contributing to the Decline of Empathy

A few things contribute to the decline of empathy in this modern society. One of the most significant is the rise of digital technology and social media. Yes, these platforms have the potential to connect us, but they can also create a sense of disconnection and isolation. The constant barrage of curated content and highlight reels can make real-life struggles seem unreal, distant, and less urgent.

Plus, the anonymity of the internet can lead to a lack of accountability and empathy. When people interact online, they are more likely to engage in negative behaviors, such as cyberbullying and trolling, which can further erode empathy and compassion. Um…can you say keyboard warrior? A study published in the journal "Computers in Human Behavior" found that individuals who spend more time on social media are more likely to exhibit narcissistic traits and less likely to engage in empathetic behaviors.

Another contributing factor is the fast-paced nature of modern life. With increasing demands on our time and attention, folks become to busy to notice when others are in need. This constant state of being on the go and busyness can lead to a lack of presence and awareness, making it difficult to connect with others on a deeper level.

The Societal Implications of Desensitization

The decline of empathy has far-reaching implications for society. When people become desensitized to the suffering of others, we further weaken the social cohesion and community bonds we cannot afford to lose. This erosion of connection can lead to increased isolation and loneliness, both of which are linked to a range of negative health outcomes, like depression, anxiety, and even premature death.

Also, a lack of empathy can perpetuate social injustices and inequalities. When individuals and groups fail to understand or acknowledge the struggles of others, they are less likely to advocate for change or support policies that promote social justice. This indifference can further the divide within our society.

Rebuilding Empathy: A Call to Action

While the decline of empathy is very concerning, there is hope for reversing it. Rebuilding empathy requires intentional effort and a commitment to fostering connection and understanding.

To read more about the strategies to promote empathy in our daily lives and read more about Jerilyn’s thoughts on the topic, go to:  https://medium.com/@jalongs/the-erosion-of-empathy-experiencing-the-desensitization-of-modern-society-up-close-5b78b06f1c66

J.A. Longs