Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Modern Leadership and Innovation!

Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Modern Leadership and Innovation!

Imke von Maur, a distinguished professor of philosophy at KU Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, recently took part in an important event in Paris. Together with Lucy Osler from Cardiff University, she discussed the challenges and opportunities associated with affective dimensions of justice. It became clear that many scientists deal with topics such as social-ecological crises, political change and war. Von Maur emphasized that these developments represent not only theoretical questions, but also emotional challenges for responsible subjects. She highlighted the positive potential of human emotionality, including resilience, solidarity and the longing for peaceful coexistence; Topics that are extremely relevant in an increasingly polarized world.

The event was also a significant part of the European Platform for the Study of Emotions (EPSSE), which is considered a central platform for philosophical exchange on emotions. The EPSSE annual meeting takes place annually in different European cities and in recent years Lisbon, Tartu, Graz, Pisa, Madrid and Athens have been visited. The society is known for its open and collegial atmosphere and promotes dialogue about emotional intelligence and its social impact.

Social justice in focus

Parallel to the discussions about emotions, there is a worrying trend towards income and wealth inequality in Germany. A growing proportion of the population is affected by stagnating or even declining real wages. In fact, it turns out that the top ten percent of income earners now own almost two thirds of the total assets. While the bottom ten percent struggle to cover their living expenses, inequality becomes clear in various areas of society, be it the education system, the tax system or medical care. These factors are increasingly perceived by society as social injustice.

The perception of inequalities depends heavily on individual definitions of social justice. Social justice is often understood as the distribution of rights, positions and goods in a society and also includes the way in which the state makes distribution decisions. Conflicts over distribution affect both goods and burdens and are often mediated through social institutions.

Emotional intelligence as a key competency

In the context of these social challenges, the concept of emotional intelligence (EI) is becoming increasingly important. Originally popularized by Daniel Goleman, EI describes the ability to recognize and understand one's own emotions and respond empathetically to the emotions of others. Modern companies are increasingly relying on emotional intelligence as a key competency in personnel development. Especially in times of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) and BANI (brittle, anxious, non-linear, incomprehensible) it is clear that emotional intelligence is crucial for the ability to innovate and retain employees.

A 2021 survey found that almost 70% of executives believe that a positive mood increases productivity. Psychological safety, closely linked to emotional intelligence, is crucial for job satisfaction and employee retention. Understanding emotional intelligence as part of personality development and mental health is increasingly being integrated into human resource development programs.

In conclusion, both emotions and social justice issues need to be urgently addressed in today's society. The efforts of researchers like Imke von Maur and the increasing importance of emotional intelligence in the world of work can make a significant contribution to fairer and more empathetic coexistence.