Final answer:
Empathic understanding in research involves grasping the meanings that individuals attach to their experiences and reality, which is vital in historical studies. Through story-telling and cognitive empathy, we can immerse ourselves into the narratives of others, helping to build social understanding and problem-solving skills. Recognizing the complexity of the social construction of reality is essential in providing a balanced view of history and current social issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
“Empathic understanding” refers to the research that aims to comprehend the meanings individuals ascribe to their experiences and the world around them. This concept is critical in social studies, especially within the branch of history, where it is important for the narrative immersion of individuals into the past to understand the social constructions and realities of the time without imposing modern-day judgments. Empathy, particularly cognitive empathy, plays a key role in helping individuals understand and consider other perspectives, which can deepen social problem-solving and conflict resolution. A historical example of empathic understanding is considering how historical actors might have perceived their role and actions within the context of their own era, rather than through the lens of contemporary attitudes. This practice, known as historical empathy, asks us to view the past clearly and without bias, and to remember that while one's perception may create a personal social construction of reality, it may differ greatly from others' realities.
Story-telling is a powerful tool for creating empathy as it allows individuals to experience and understand lives different from their own, potentially reshaping their views and emotions about certain events or individuals. It encourages narrative immersion, offering insights into scenarios that might otherwise be alien to the reader or listener. The aim is to present a balanced narrative without succumbing to the trappings of narcissism or extreme individualism, which Tom Elemans suggests may undermine collective understanding and empathy.
In the context of historical studies and other fields within social sciences, researchers must balance the task of providing a comprehensive picture of past events while acknowledging the complexity of personal and collective interpretations of reality. Understanding that there can be multiple viewpoints of a single reality helps shape a more nuanced and objective understanding of history and current events.