Teaching and Learning Empathy: An Interactive, Online Diplomatic Simulation of Middle East Conflict

What pass for the study of international relations is often more an examination of foreign affairs, transnational interaction from ethnocentric perspectives. Many analysts accept the assumptions and values of their own political culture, then superimpose them on other nations. If another state does not act in accordance with those values, its leaders are labeled irrational. Such ethnocentric analysis excludes empathy, the ability to experience the values, feelings, and perceptions of another, a basic element needed to understand international relations. Empirical and analytical skills are important; but without empathy, students will never fully appreciate the subtle complexities of global affairs. This paper explores the link between empathy and simulation role-playing, suggesting some practical steps to help students better adopt simulation roles; it illustrates these steps by describing a Middle East diplomatic simulation using Internet based, strategic interaction; and it evaluates students' responses.