Compassion, Kindness, and Moral Well-being: Indian Perspectives

This chapter explores the factors in the course of development that enable or restrict the expression of positive moral emotions like compassion and kindness in human societies. To this end, global and cross-cultural research trends in positive psychology and human development are examined. The first part of the chapter focuses on empirical studies on well-being outcomes across the lifespan (and contextual factors) when individuals who engage in random acts of kindness and/or express compassion are reviewed. The second part presents Indian perspectives on compassion and kindness emanating from traditional and spiritual texts including Bhagavad Gita, works of saints, Panchatantra and Jataka tales. Drawing insights from these select works, the development of compassionate selfhood for individual and societal well-being is discussed in the light of moral threats and challenges in the twenty-first century. Illustrative case studies and innovative ideas are highlighted for future research and application.