Question

Some researchers hypothesize that reading fiction can increase empathy in children. What prediction follows from this hypothesis?

a) Students who have high empathy scores are more likely to read fiction.
b) Students who have high empathy scores are more likely to read non-fiction.
c) All students who read fiction have high empathy scores.
d) Students who don't read don't have high empathy scores.

Answer 1

Based on the hypothesis that reading fiction can increase empathy in children, a logical prediction would be that students who read fiction may show higher empathy levels, given how fiction engages readers with different perspectives and emotional experiences.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hypothesis that reading fiction can increase empathy in children leads to several possible predictions. However, a logical prediction following this hypothesis is that students who read fiction may develop higher levels of empathy. This is because fiction often immerses the reader in the experiences of others, fostering an understanding and connection to the feelings and emotions of characters. In contrast, predictions such as 'students who have high empathy scores are more likely to read non-fiction' or 'all students who read fiction have high empathy scores' do not necessarily follow the hypothesis since they don't address the causative aspect of reading fiction on developing empathy. Similarly, 'students who don't read don't have high empathy scores' is not a prediction that directly follows from the hypothesis.

When we consider Why we read fiction, it is often for both pleasure and personal growth. Fiction provides an escape into imaginative worlds, offering entertainment and also the opportunity to engage with complex characters and situations, which can lead to an expanded sense of empathy. Moreover, as Tomas Elemans suggests, choosing fiction over non-fiction can have the significant side effect of enhancing empathy, serving as a response to a world where we are constantly bombarded by impersonal news and headlines.

Literary works and discussions not only improve our critical reading skills and appreciation for different genres but also enhance our ability to empathize with others. This reflects the value of literature as a tool for both personal enjoyment and social and emotional development. Such benefits reinforce why educators and researchers might advocate for including fiction reading in children's education.