A Study on Data Visualization Design of Marine Biodiversity Based on Empathy Theory

Abstract

As the crisis of marine ecological degradation intensifies, public awareness and concern for marine biodiversity have grown significantly. Data visualization, as a critical tool for communicating scientific knowledge, not only enables intuitive dissemination of complex information but also serves as a bridge between rational analysis and emotional engagement. This study investigates the integration of empathy theory into the design of marine biodiversity data visualizations, aiming to foster deeper emotional resonance and environmental consciousness among users. By examining the unique characteristics of marine biodiversity and synthesizing key principles of empathy theory, the study proposes a design framework that incorporates emotional storytelling, multisensory interaction, and visual metaphor. A prototype project was developed to evaluate the practical application of this framework. The findings suggest that empathy-driven visualization design can substantially enhance user engagement and comprehension of biodiversity data. This research contributes innovative design strategies for environmental data communication and provides both theoretical insights and practical guidance for advancing marine ecological protection