Emotional Intelligence

1.5 Credits · Level: Graduate

“National Interests” are at the center and focus of the study and practice of International Relations, yet they only tell part of the story. Emotional Intelligence (EQ), human connections, and empathy are key, yet largely ignored, in our decision-making process, leading to mismatched policies and approaches. EQ is defined as one’s ability to recognize and understand emotions in yourself and others, and your ability to use this awareness to manage your behavior and relationships. “National Interests” are at the center and focus of the study and practice of International Relations, yet they only tell part of the story. Emotional Intelligence (EQ), human connections, and empathy are key, yet largely ignored, in our decision-making process, leading to mismatched policies and approaches. EQ is defined as one’s ability to recognize and understand emotions in yourself and others, and your ability to use this awareness to manage your behavior and relationships. The objective of this seminar is to get students to understand the under-estimated role personal relations and emotional intelligence play in some of the biggest stories of international politics, war and peace; and to do so through two main planes: First, practical strategies to improve one’s EQ; and second, developing tangible tools to integrate EQ into strategy development and policy. The seminar will include short analytical writings, simulations, and other written and oral exercises.