D111

Kindness

BD08 Ethics & Values
Derived LayerMML-2

Version v1.2.4

Definition

A tendency to treat people benevolently and avoid unnecessary harshness in everyday interaction.

Poles

Each HES element is a spectrum, not a category: the Low and High poles describe how it presents at its two extremes, while the Reference marks the typical, everyday middle. The poles map variation across the range — neither end is inherently better or worse.

Low Pole

Frequently harsh or emotionally damaging beyond what the situation requires.

High Pole

Chooses respectful, humane treatment, including under strain and disagreement.

Reference

Kind toward the weak or familiar; harsh toward competitors or “culpable” targets.

Measure

Primary: Frequency — proportion of interactions in which a benevolent, non-harsh style is selected.

Measuring Methods

Interaction episode ratings (self + observers) on unnecessary harshness vs respectful conduct.

Empirical Anchor

Kindness / agreeableness — tender-mindedness facet (Costa & McCrae, 1992); prosocial behavior; VIA kindness strength (Peterson & Seligman, 2004).

Notes

Not identical to mercy: kindness is everyday style; mercy concerns sanctions and judgment.

Citation

APA

Human Elements System. (2026). Kindness (HES Passport D111, v1.2.4). hestable.com. https://hestable.com/passport/D111

BibTeX

@misc{hes_D111, author = {{Human Elements System}}, title = {{Kindness}}, year = {2026}, note = {HES Passport D111, v1.2.4}, howpublished = {\url{https://hestable.com/passport/D111}} }