Description
Is IQ destiny? Not nearly as much as we think. Daniel Goleman’s fascinating and persuasive book argues that our view of human intelligence is far too narrow, ignoring a crucial range of abilities that matter immensely in terms of how we do in life.
Drawing on groundbreaking brain and behavioral research, Goleman shows the factors at work when people of high IQ flounder and those of modest IQ do surprisingly well. These factors add up to a different way of being smart—one he terms “emotional intelligence.” Emotional intelligence includes self-awareness and impulse control, persistence, zeal and self-motivation, empathy and social deftness.
These are the qualities that mark people who excel in real life: whose intimate relationships flourish, who are stars in the workplace. These are also the hallmarks of character and self-discipline, of altruism and compassion—basic capacities needed if our society is to thrive.
As Goleman demonstrates, the personal costs of deficits in emotional intelligence can range from problems in marriage and parenting to poor physical health. (New research shows that chronic anger and anxiety create as great a health risk as chainsmoking.) Lack of emotional intelligence can sabotage the intellect and ruin careers. Perhaps the greatest toll is on children, for whom risks include depression, eating disorders and unwanted pregnancy, aggressiveness and violent crime.
But the news is hopeful. Emotional intelligence is not fixed at birth. Goleman’s argument is based on a highly original synthesis of current research, including new insights into the brain architecture underlying emotion and rationality. He shows precisely how emotional intelligence can be nurtured and strengthened in all of us. And because the emotional lessons a child learns actually sculpt the brain’s circuitry, Goleman provides detailed guidance as to how parents and schools can best use this window of opportunity in childhood.
The message of this eye-opening book is one we must take to heart: the true “bell curve” for a democracy must measure emotional intelligence. Daniel Goleman offers a new vision of excellence and a vital new curriculum for life that can change the future for us and for our children.
