English Topics: Is empathy learned or are we born with it?

Ice Breaking Topics

If you could live on a houseboat, would you? Why or why not?
What is something you're inherently bad at, no matter how hard you try to improve?
Are you a ‘sweet tooth’?
If you could fill a swimming pool with any liquid other than water, what would you choose?
How do you think your personal values and beliefs influence your motivations and goals?
What do you admire in others?
How do you usually respond to challenges?
What’s the most interesting thing you've ever learned in a class or course?

Do you think it is possible to be too empathetic?
Are there any jobs where empathy could be a negative trait to have?
Is empathy learned or are we born with it?
Do you think animals can feel empathy?
Are you good at knowing when something is wrong with a coworker or family member?
What is the social or evolutionary purpose of empathy?
How do you help someone when they are going through a hard time?
In what jobs is strong empathy very important?

Does being born into a wealthy family make someone spoiled?
Can you tell me about a time when you made a mistake and learned from it?
How do your family's traditions or customs differ from those of your friends or peers?
What's one small thing that always makes you smile or brightens your day?
What is the strangest thing you've ever eaten?
Should schools teach emotional intelligence and life skills?
What qualities do you value most in a partner?
What are some of the most important issues facing the healthcare system?