Chronically online, emotionally offline: The empathy crisis

But how exactly does social media strip us of our most basic human trait — empathy? Shows like Adolescence have revealed how online discourse seeps into real life, shaping the way we relate to others. While this is often associated with Gen Z —the first generation born into the internet age — experts say the empathy deficit reflects broader cultural and societal shifts.

So how do memes and echo chambers blunt our ability to step into another person’s shoes? We asked a few experts.

Dr. Johnsey Thomas, clinical psychologist, believes that young people today are facing an empathy crisis.

“While this generation is more connected than ever, it’s also emotionally distant. Most of them have grown up with technology and are trapped in algorithm-driven filters that show them only what they like or agree with,” he explains. He adds, “Online interactions, which often lack emotional depth, are replacing real-world ones. Liking, scrolling, swiping—none of these teach body language, comfort, or real help. They rob us of the complexity of human interaction.”

Everyone enjoys a good meme, but what happens when memes trivialize a tragedy? Over time, they can desensitize us. Aditya Sesh, a member of the Development Committee at Rishihood University, explains:

“The issue isn’t generational — it’s cultural. When tragedies, mental illness, or systemic injustice are reduced to bite-sized jokes, they become abstractions. Repetition numbs sensitivity, making real suffering feel distant or even trivial.”

“For digital natives constantly exposed to such content, the impact is stronger,” says Sesh. “It’s not that young people are inherently less empathetic — it’s that the medium trains detachment. A transactional culture reduces even tragedy to consumable content. Hyper-individualism breaks communal bonds, and privilege widens the empathy gap.”

He adds, “Viral outrage, while raising awareness, also numbs emotion. When every tragedy trends, emotional weight is lost. Dark humor has always existed, but today’s digital spread is faster and far-reaching. Shows like Squid Game or Don’t Look Up explore how easily cruelty becomes a spectacle. The danger isn’t just that Gen Z laughs —it’s that the laughter no longer feels incongruent with caring.”

Dr Sachin Baliga, Consultant Psychiatrist at Fortis Hospital, cautions against generalizing.

“Empathy erosion is not a Gen Z problem alone. It’s part of wider societal shifts, including parenting styles, privilege, and social norms. Social media’s echo chambers only expose users to views similar to their own, limiting emotional growth.”

Yet, Dr. Baliga points out that Gen Z is also leading positive change. “They are at the forefront of climate activism, mental health awareness, and social justice movements. Empathy can’t be assumed — it must be nurtured. Real-world interactions, accountability, and emotional education are essential.”

Dr. Thomas suggests steps toward rebuilding empathy: “Empathy must be practiced. Volunteering, real dialogue, and mentorship are key. Young people must be encouraged to break out of their echo chambers —not to agree, but to understand. Technology itself isn’t the enemy — it’s how we use it.”

He concludes on a hopeful note: “This generation wants to innovate. With the right support, they can help create a kinder, more empathetic world.”