Beyond asymmetry: An epidemiology of compassion for a more compassionate global health
Abstract
As the contributions to this special issue illustrate, compassion is a key motivator for individuals and, increasingly, health systems in global health. This commentary considers the power dynamics of compassion in global health, particularly challenging the notion that compassion is inherently asymmetrical. I illustrate that it is not the compassion itself that is unequal but rather the visibility of its actors, depending on their power and position. The challenges and opportunities for building equity through an epidemiology of compassion are considered.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Global Health and Surgery
Public health and occupational medicine
Cultural Competency in Health Care
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal of Wellbeing
- Volume
- 16
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 1–5
- Publication date
- 4 March 2026
- Language
- EN