Abstract
In this chapter, I present competing and complementary definitions of empathy from psychology and neuroscience. I demonstrate through theoretical, empirical, and public commentary how groups or individuals lack empathy and adopt a preferential color-blind racial ideology (CBRI) and empathy bias. Preferential CBRI is when an individual chooses to engage in racially color-blind behaviors in particular circumstances but not in others. It is similar to strategic CBRI, which I define later in the chapter. I also discuss empathy and an empathic disposition’s connection to race in societies. I argue how empathy in everyday life presents different challenges for different groups. Finally, the chapter concludes, using a CBRI framework, with an examination of empathy or the lack of empathy and its effect on perceptions of race in a color-blind society. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | The Myth of Racial Color Blindness |
| Subtitle of host publication | Manifestations, Dynamics, and Impact |
| Editors | Helen A. Neville, Miguel E. Gallardo, Derald Wing Sue |
| Publisher | American Psychological Association |
| Pages | 175-190 |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-1-4338-2073-1, 978-1-4338-2074-8 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 2016 |
| Externally published | Yes |