Ethics-integrity-and-aptitude / Emotional Intelligence / History of Emotional Intelligence

History of Emotional Intelligence

The concept of emotional intelligence has its roots in the early 20th century, but it was not until the 1990s that it became widely popularized. Here is a brief history of emotional intelligence:

  • Early research: In the early 1900s, psychologists such as Edward Thorndike and John Dewey proposed that intelligence involves more than just cognitive abilities. They suggested that social and emotional skills were also important for success in life.
  • Development of the concept: The term “emotional intelligence” was first used by Peter Salovey and John Mayer in 1990. They defined emotional intelligence as “the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them, and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and actions.”
  • Popularity: The concept of emotional intelligence gained widespread popularity after the publication of Daniel Goleman’s book “Emotional Intelligence” in 1995. Goleman argued that emotional intelligence was a better predictor of success than traditional measures of intelligence such as IQ.
  • Research and criticism: Since the 1990s, there has been a significant amount of research on emotional intelligence, with some studies supporting the concept and others questioning its validity. Critics have argued that the concept is too vague and difficult to measure.
  • Continued relevance: Despite the criticisms, the concept of emotional intelligence remains popular and continues to be studied in fields such as psychology, business, and education. Many experts believe that emotional intelligence is an important factor in personal and professional success. 

Charles Darwin did not use the term "emotional intelligence" as it was not coined until well after his death. However, Darwin did write extensively about the evolution and function of emotions, which is related to the concept of emotional intelligence. Here are some of Darwin's key thoughts on emotions:

  • Emotions have an evolutionary function: Darwin believed that emotions evolved as adaptive
    responses to help organisms survive and reproduce. For example, fear helps us avoid danger, and anger helps us defend ourselves.
  • Emotions are universal: Darwin argued that emotions are universal across cultures and species. He believed that humans and animals experience similar emotions, and that this is evidence of a common evolutionary heritage.
  • Emotions are expressed through facial expressions: Darwin was one of the first scientists
    to study facial expressions and their relationship to emotions. He believed that certain facial expressions were universal and could be used to infer the emotional states of others.
  • Emotions are subjective experiences: Darwin recognized that emotions are not just physical reactions, but also subjective experiences that involve conscious awareness. He believed that emotions are intimately connected to our mental and physical well-being

 

Have questions about a course or test series?

unread messages    ?   
Ask an Expert

Enquiry

Help us make sure you are you through an OTP:

Please enter correct Name

Please authenticate via OTP

Resend OTP
Please enter correct mobile number
Please enter OTP

Please enter correct Name
Resend OTP
Please enter correct mobile number

OTP has been sent.

Please enter OTP