Studies show that our ability to empathise has greatly diminished over the last 30 years. It’s due in part to the uptake of smartphones and social media – we’re all too busy thinking about ourselves. But while it might be part of the problem, could technology also be used to make us more empathetic?

Can games change a player's interests and opinions? 'Persuasive gaming' designers believe they can, and have set their sights on encouraging proactive approaches to well-being and prosocial behaviour through the first ever master's degree course in persuasive gaming.

As the limitations and conventions of genre dissolve, That Dragon, Cancer is part of a fresh approach to gaming that recognises real empathy can only be felt through genuine experience – winning over an involved and profoundly committed audience.

People are willing to show support for social causes – provided they don't have to do much - and brands are finding new ways to tap into the strength of the herd. By re-engineering menial actions – from buying body lotion to having sex – there are ways to reward everyone.