‘A timely and groundbreaking exposé on how compassion can transform the suffering we face in this world. James Kirby compellingly makes the case that when we choose compassion, we choose to engage in courageous actions that can transform the lives of others, giving them hope, safety, opportunity and freedom.’ Craig Foster AM

Health and science reporter for the ABC and co-host of the ABC's multi-award-winning Coronacast, Tegan Taylor is in-conversation with James Kirby discussing Choose Compassion.

Australia’s leading compassion researcher explores the challenges of becoming a more compassionate person and developing a more compassionate society. When you think of compassion, what comes to mind? Kindness, understanding, tenderness, empathy, maybe warmth? Compassion can be all those things – but it is much more.

Drawing on his many years of experience as a clinical psychologist and researcher, Dr James Kirby brings together hard science and real-life examples to offer a guide to a more compassionate life and society.

Kirby debunks the myth that compassion is simply a feeling and shows us how it is a motivational force that can shape our behaviour and relationships with each other and the world. He considers how it might help with self-criticism, parenting and grief, and he explores what part artificial intelligence might play in a compassionate future.

In this engaging and timely book, Kirby traverses philosophy, psychology and pop culture to show how we can choose compassion to make our lives healthier, happier and more meaningful.

James Kirby is the co-director of the Compassionate Mind Research Group at the University of Queensland. He studies the effectiveness of Compassion Focused Therapy interventions in helping with the self-criticism and shame that underpin many depression and anxiety disorders. James also works as a clinical psychologist in private practice. Choose Compassion is his first book.