The Role of Government in Promoting the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A View through the Lens of Empathy

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20081926

N France and V Jarbandhan (School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy, University of Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) brings a major shift that is changing economies, societies, and governance around the world. Governments play an essential role in steering this change as technology intersects with issues such as socio-economic inequality, unemployment, and limited institutional resources. This article argues that progressing the 4IR should not rely solely on technology and policy changes. It also requires a focus on governance that emphasises empathy and makes digital transformation more human. Using a qualitative and conceptual approach, the article examines how empathy can shape government strategies to encourage inclusive digital development, address the digital divide, and reduce the human impact of automation. The analysis indicates that empathy helps policymakers anticipate social effects, create people-focused policies, and build public trust in governance during this period of digital change. The article aims to explore how government can support the 4IR by showing how promoting empathy in policymaking, leadership, and governance can enable the government to effectively fulfil this crucial role in the South African public sector.