Empathy, Narrative and Cultural Values

The 'Empathy, Narrative and Cultural Values' (ENCV) project is led by the University of Birmingham and the University of Exeter, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

It delves into the intricate dynamics of narrative perception and empathy among South Asian Muslim communities in the West Midlands. We investigate how cultural values, particularly those rooted in Islam, shape individuals' engagement with stories, especially in educational and health contexts.

By studying the narratives embraced by students at Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College and those shared by cancer patients interacting with 'Cancer Champions', we aim to illuminate the role of faith and culture in narrative interpretation.

We aim to not only enrich our understanding of multicultural interpretative practices but also inform pedagogical approaches and health communication strategies for more inclusive and effective outcomes.

Research team

Partner organisations

  • Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College
  • Narrative 4
  • Macmillan Cancer Care
  • Green Lane Masjid
  • British Islamic Medical Association

Activities and events

  • Symposium, February 2024
  • Story Exchange, June 2024

Contact us

For inquiries and collaboration, please contact us at ENCV@contacts.bham.ac.uk