The Science of Sustainable Giving: How Empathy and Generosity Support Health and Flourishing
Join us for the second seminar in our Virtues for Well-being series. Social psychologist Dr. Sara Konrath will present, “The Science of Sustainable Giving: How Empathy and Generosity Support Health and Flourishing.” All are welcome to attend!
Event Description
Many of us devote our time, energy, care, and resources to supporting others—whether through helping family and friends, volunteering in our communities, offering empathy in daily interactions, or giving financially. But what are the implications of these generous behaviors for our own well-being, social connections, and physical health? This talk explores the growing body of interdisciplinary research on empathy and generosity, focusing on how different forms of giving—emotional, practical, and financial—shape not only the lives of recipients but also the givers themselves. Drawing on findings from psychology, public health, and neuroscience, as well as new data from the 2025 World Happiness Report co-authored by Dr. Konrath, we will examine how and when generosity enhances flourishing. The session will offer guidance for how to give with intention, boundaries, and joy, with practical, evidence-based strategies for giving and caring in sustainable, rather than depleting, ways. By approaching empathy and generosity as both a science and an art, this talk invites attendees to reflect on their own giving practices and to discover how empathy and generosity—when wisely offered—can serve as powerful contributors to their own and others’ wellbeing.
Speaker Biography
Dr. Sara Konrath is a social psychologist and Director of the Interdisciplinary Program on Empathy and Altruism Research at Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research. Her research examines the development, benefits, and promotion of empathy, generosity, and social connection. She has documented generational trends in empathy and narcissism, and linked empathy and giving to well-being and health. Konrath has developed innovative digital tools to increase empathy and partnered with educators, physicians, fundraisers, dating apps, zoos, and museums to evaluate empathy-based interventions. She has published over 100 scientific papers and delivered 300+ presentations, including at SouthXSouthwest and the Aspen Ideas Institute. She is a co-author of the 2025 World Happiness Report, co-organizer of the annual Science of Philanthropy Initiative conference, and has been an editor for leading psychology and nonprofit studies journals. Her work is regularly featured in media outlets such as The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Time, The Atlantic, NPR, BBC, and CBC.
Speaker Information
Dr. Sara Konrath
Organizers
ⓘ Harvard Chan School hosts a diverse array of speakers, invited to share both scholarly research and personal perspectives. They do not speak for the School, and hosting them does not imply endorsement of their views, organizations, or employers.