Exploring empathy in artificial intelligence: synthesis and paths for future research

Purpose The current research elucidates the role of empathy in design of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in healthcare context, through a structured literature review, analysis and synthesis of academic literature published between 1990 and 2024. Design/methodology/approach This study aims to advance the domain of empathy in AI by adopting theory constructs context method approach using the PRISMA 2020 framework. Findings The study presents a current state-of-the-art literature to review the connections between empathy and AI and identifying four clusters showing the emerging trajectories in the field of AI and empathy in healthcare setting. Originality/value Despite a rise in empirical research, the potential pathways enhancing AI accountability by incorporation of empathy is unclear. The research aims to contribute to the existing literature on AI and empathy in the healthcare sector by carving out four distinct clusters depicting the future research avenues.