First-ever International Dialogue on Developing ‘Compassion Quotient’

The Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion convened the first-ever International Dialogue on developing ‘Compassion Quotient’ in collaboration with the Centre for Social and Behaviour Change and Ashoka University . 

Let me put the idea of Compassion Quotient (CQ) most simply. It is a matrix to evaluate and enhance the ability of individuals, groups, and society to feel and solve others' problems mindfully.

The world is facing multiple and complex problems but undoubtedly has the resources, laws & constitutions, governments, religions, knowledge and technology to solve them. So why do sustainability, inclusion, equity, justice and peace remain far distant?

One answer that comes to mind is that the gap between the people and institutions responsible for solving the problems and those who are suffering is widening and deepening. This is resulting in a deficit in moral responsibility and accountability as well as a sense of urgency. Similarly, although we are connected almost in real time through fast internet in our personal, professional and social lives but loneliness is spreading like an epidemic resulting in depression, anxiety and mental illness. Why is all this happening?

Let us try to understand through a metaphor.

Can we imagine life without oxygen for human beings, animals or plants? Definitely not. A decrease in oxygen level for any living being is dangerous for health as it risks survival. You might remember that during the pandemic we were constantly checking our oxygen level through an oxy meter. The true value of oxygen was only felt when we were struggling for it. 

This oxygen is Compassion – the life within us. Without Compassion, we risk losing humanity and becoming mechanical, commercial and transactional. We must understand and recognize the deficit of compassion. Compassion is the deepest connection with the suffering of others that compels others to take action. Compassion is inherent in all of us; we are born with an abundance of it, yet over time, we often limit it to those closest to us. 

Compassion is closely linked to the existence of human civilization. It is not a weak emotion or a meek value as perceived traditionally but rather the power to drive problem-solving and social transformation.  To prevent a global deficit of compassion, we need to create systems and mechanisms that measure and continually harness and foster compassion. Enhancing the Compassion Quotient in individuals, organizations, and societies will help make our world more inclusive, sustainable, and just.

This historic event on Compassion Quotient brought together imminent persons, psychologists and scholars from Harvard University , University of Oxford , University of Washington , University of Michigan , Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur , and UNESCO . This gathering was a breakthrough in our humble efforts to globalise compassion.  

The panel discussion emphasized the need for practical strategies and collaborative efforts to integrate compassion into personal behaviours and societal systems. CQ should extend beyond individuals to encompass groups, communities, organizations, and nations. We aim to develop a globally accessible and inclusive CQ, through the contributions of subject matter experts, academicians, and researchers. Future efforts will involve engaging faith leaders, business leaders, the judiciary, and healthcare professionals to embed Compassion Quotients in various fields. The discussions were highly enriching, and I appreciate the scholars' thought-provoking insights, which will be instrumental in redefining and revitalizing compassion as a transformative force for a better world.

I would welcome your ideas and suggestions for building this social movement.