The EmpathiCH workshop series has, over three iterations, unpacked how empathy is conceptualized, measured, and used in HCI, identifying both its potential benefits and notable pitfalls. Despite these discussions, the diverse roles of empathy in research and practice remain fragmented and under-theorized. This fourth iteration seeks to consolidate perspectives by situating empathy within a sociomaterial framework. We propose exploring three dimensions-technology, social practices, and context-that shape how empathy is conceptualized and applied. The workshop will combine an interactive, discussion-centric format enabling participants to share experiences, debate perspectives, and collaboratively analyze cases across these dimensions. Outcomes will contribute to co-developing a sociomaterial taxonomy for empathy in HCI, offering conceptual clarity and practical guidance for design. Participants will engage in critical dialogue, connect with peers, and contribute directly to shaping the future of empathy-centered approaches in HCI.

The EmpathiCH Workshop aims to blend a diverse set of expertise to expand upon the nascent field of Empathy-Centric Design. Building on the discussions in previous editions of the workshop, this iteration invites contributions which scrutinize the use of empathy as a design principle in digital interfaces. We encourage inquiry in a number of research dimensions: examining the multifaceted nature of empathy; establishing both the requirements and shortcomings of empathy in design research; discussing key post-human stakeholders in digital interfaces (social groups, causes, digital avatars, artificial agents etc.); and expanding the scope of empathy research beyond preliminary perspective-taking. The workshop, structured as a combination of author panels, expert discussion, and interactive activities, provides the ideal venue to foster a critical discussion on the nature of the suitability of empathy in digital design, especially in the rapidly approaching context of its role in post-humanist HCI.