THE LITERARY PERSPECTIVE OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN LEADERSHIP

Abstract

Ever since its birth in 1920, the emotional intelligence (EI) has been much in use at the hands of both practitioners as well as theorists related to management studies. Originally developed by the psychologist E L Thorndike, the concept is often juxtaposed with Social Intelligence, IQ and EQ. However, it is a popular misconception that the concepts like these and many more, have been developed only in the western countries and that there is no role of countries like India. In fact is very demeaning for a culturally rich country like India where the qualities of both head and heart have always been appreciated as a necessary attribute in an ideal human being. As such, a preference of head over heart has always been considered dangerous to the humanity as well as other living and non-living beings. A powerful man, howsoever strong in head, but lacking in the goodness of heart, always brings ruin to his fellow beings-be it humans or animals. Fortunately, literary writers have been sensitive to the issue. The writers in their own unique way shave tried to sensitize and educate the readers in successive periods of time. In fact, the primordial writings are finest examples of how emotions could be helpful in shaping the course of intelligence. The present paper attempts to explore the role of literary and philosophical writings including the scriptures of India in this discourse.