Skip to content

Compassion Quote by Dacher Keltner

“Studies have shown touch to be the primary language of compassion, love and gratitude - emotions at the heart of trust and cooperation - even more than facial expressions and voice. Touch is the central medium in which the goodness of one individual can spread to another. Touch is the original…” quote by Dacher Keltner
Download Open image
“Studies have shown touch to be the primary language of compassion, love and gratitude - emotions at the heart of trust and cooperation - even more than facial expressions and voice. Touch is the central medium in which the goodness of one individual can spread to another. Touch is the original contact high.”

Dacher Keltner

About This Quote

Touch is the primary language of compassion, love, and gratitude, fostering trust and cooperation more than facial or vocal cues.

In simple terms: Touch conveys compassion and trust more than words or faces.

Key Takeaway

Use touch to build connection and goodwill.

Themes

psychology relationships empathy

Mood

warm empathetic

Type

inspirational practical

When to use this quote

  • parent‑child interaction
  • team building
  • therapeutic settings
  • community events

Key Concepts

nonverbal communication social bonding trust building

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you express care without touch?
  • When is touch most effective for trust?
A Different Perspective

Cultural norms may restrict touch; not everyone is comfortable with physical contact.

2.2 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Dacher Keltner

Explore all 11 Dacher Keltner quotes

More Compassion quotes

Browse all 9,892 Compassion quotes