Caring Too Much, Caring Too Little: A Three Part Series

Empathy isn’t just a feeling, it’s a practice. While we've explored the pressures of technology and the weight of caring in an unfeeling world, this final part asks: How do we move beyond surface-level compassion? What does it take to care in a way that truly makes a difference? Through real stories and thoughtful insights, we’ll explore how young people are redefining care in an age of disconnect.

We Think Therefore We Care

In the New York Times article “We May Be Born With an Urge to Help”, Nicholas Wade delves into the fascinating idea that humans are inherently wired to care for others—an instinct hardcoded into our DNA from birth. This unique trait sets us apart from the animal kingdom, highlighting the deep-seated urge to nurture and connect. The article goes on to expound on this theory, saying that Dr. Tomasello, a development psychologist and co-director of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig believes that children develop what he calls “shared intentionality”.

“a notion of what others expect to happen and hence a sense of a group “we.” It is from this shared intentionality that children derive their sense of norms and of expecting others to obey them.”. - Dr. Tomasello

It’s no surprise, then, to see young people actively engaging with social issues and shouldering the weight of societal challenges. So where do we draw the line between genuine care and surface-level gestures? As designers, this distinction becomes even more critical. The risk of blurring this line can lead to solutions that, while visually polished or seemingly innovative, fail to address the deeper, more impactful needs of the people they’re meant to serve.

So we pose the questions – what does it mean to care in a way that truly matters? How can we move beyond the superficial to cultivate impactful care, for ourselves, for others, and for the world we’re designing for?

We all know how engaged young people are with social issues today, demonstrating an awareness and desire to make a difference. But let’s pause and ask: what happens when that care becomes superficial? Take the example of switching to paper straws or refusing extra plastic utensils—both well-meaning actions. But if we’re still ordering that second cup of bubble tea to push through a busy day, the impact of our choices starts to feel symbolic rather than substantive. That extra plastic is still used even though the right sentiments were there.

The same applies to our work as designers. When we conduct user research or engage in iterative design processes, are we genuinely striving to understand and improve the user experience? Or are we simply checking off steps on a checklist, treating empathy as just another deliverable? Superficial care doesn’t just dilute our impact—it risks undermining the trust and purpose that should define our work.

Without empathy, products risk being disconnected from the realities of the people they’re designed for. It’s easy to fall into the trap of building for what’s technologically possible or aesthetically pleasing, but if we fail to address users’ real pain points, frustrations, and aspirations, even the most innovative solutions can fall flat. Empathy ensures that our designs are anchored in solving actual problems rather than superficial ones.

The Superficial Smoke and Mirror

In a world that values speed and optics, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing just enough to appear caring. But as designers, we’re uniquely positioned to challenge this tendency and advocate for something more meaningful. True care—whether for the environment, our users, or the communities we design for—requires us to go beyond performative actions.

It calls for a commitment to understanding the deeper issues at play and designing with intention and authenticity. When we shift our focus from merely looking good to genuinely doing good, we don’t just create better products or services; we build trust, foster connection, and contribute to a more compassionate world. The question is, are we willing to take the leap?

As we conclude this three-part exploration of empathy, one truth becomes clear, caring is hard, but it is essential. In a world that often values speed, appearance and convenience, real care demands time, effort and intention.

Conclusion

For young designers navigating a whirlwind of challenges - technological acceleration, personal struggles and societal expectations - the call to care can feel overwhelming. But the answer lies not in grand gestures or superficial displays. It lies in small, consistent acts of meaningful care: understanding the needs of others, building connections that matter, and creating designs that empower and endure.

The journey from caring too much to caring too little, and finally, to caring just right, is not just a straight path. It requires reflection, recalibration and a commitment to put humanity at the heart of everything we do.

So, as we move forward, let’s ask ourselves this question - “What kind of world are we designing, and how can we design it with care, not just for the sake of it but because it truly matters?”

Thank you for being part of this journey. Stay connected as we delve into more themes and share fresh perspectives in the conversations ahead.