Empathy in Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring: Philosophical Reflections on the Caritas® Processes and Mindfulness

Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring offers a relevant and contemporary framework for holistic nursing care. By redefining traditional paradigms, Watson's model positions transpersonal care as both a theoretical and practical pathway for holistic nursing practice. Empathy, as a foundational human experience present in all care encounters, is central to the holistic development of transpersonal care. This essay explores, from classical and contemporary philosophical perspectives, the concept of empathy within Watson's framework, relating its core concepts to nurse-patient encounters in holistic care. Empathy is examined as an existential mode of being-with-the-other, articulated with concepts such as intercorporeality, comprehensive understanding of the other's experience, and becoming-other. Two of Watson's Caritas^® Processes are analyzed as spaces for holistic openness and empathic presence. The discussion highlights the importance of developing practices that transcend the technical-biological model, emphasizing the appreciation of alterity and the cultivation of dignified, sensitive, ethical, and transformative bonds in holistic care. Empathy is also discussed in relation to mindfulness, understood as an intentional practice that integrates body, mind, spirit, and heart, fostering compassionate listening. The article offers new philosophical perspectives and highlights the relevance of empathy in advancing holistic nursing care.