2.2.1 What is emotional intelligence

As discussed in the above chapter, the relations we build with others are influenced by our “personal identities” and often by prejudices and stereotypes. To move towards a more inclusive society there is a need to fight against discrimination starting with one’s personal attitudes and behaviours. Obviously, emotions play a crucial role in the choices we make. Emotions for a long time have been considered as a primitive component of personal identity and were often linked to mental health issues. For this reason, individuals have been taught to repress emotions.
Today things are changing and emotional intelligence as the ability to understand, use and manage personal emotions, is considered an essential asset to every individual. This ability allows persons to learn from emotions, recognising fear and mistrust which often are at the core of prejudices and making sure that decisions are not based on them.
Emotional intelligence complements rational intelligence, and it becomes more and more valuable to understand that in order to find solutions to daily life problems we need to use both forms of intelligence.
This is particularly important in fighting discrimination which is based on negative emotions stemming from prejudices and stereotypes.
- You can try to identify your emotions while watching at a documentary on refugees’ camps and discuss them with your class.
- Here some examples: watch this video showing how Refugees Span the Generations
- and this one showing a refugee teen in Greece dreaming of returning to Syria.