For the project, I decided to focus on three different types of empathy: cognitive empathy, emotional empathy, and empathetic concern. Initially, I was planning to show the conflicting themes in fantasy genres where all creatures are the same, or they acknowledge each others differences. However, I later changed the goal of the project to reflect empathy, which considers both of these opposing aspects.

The input object displays a paper drawing with conductive tape strips connecting conductive thread to the MakeyMakey board on the back of the display. For the human interactive element, there is a sewing needle connected by the same conductive thread to the board. The user is supposed to hold the needle and touch one of the conductive strips which activates one of the three animation displaying a form of empathy.

The first video displays cognitive empathy, which is the ability to understand another’s perspective. The video demonstrates this by having an ogre help a goblin reach something that is too high for them.

The second video displays emotional empathy, which is the ability to physically feel what another person is feeling. The video demonstrates this by having a goblin feel the sadness from the nearby elf.

The third video is empathetic concern, which is the ability to sense what another person needs. The video demonstrates this by having an elf help an injured ogre.

I am wondering if the empathy is expressed clearly in these animations? Is the animation magical?

Please comment.