Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ highlights the strong influence of emotional intelligence on every individual’s life. It has always been understood that intelligence quotient or IQ plays a very small role, if at all, in a person’s true success and happiness. But, only the pioneering research in the field of emotional intelligence has been able to truly define the factors that make or break a person’s life.

Backed by solid cognitive and behavioral research, the book delves into the impact of an individual’s emotions on all of his/her choices. It juxtaposes the rational side of the brain with the emotional side, showing how the brain tries to strike a balance between both during crucial moments. It also asserts that due to the influence of external factors, more often than not, the emotional side ends up taking precedence in a crunch.

The author uses numerous detailed examples to decisively show how emotional intelligence affects every aspect of a person’s life - from work to relationships, from health to happiness. He also teaches the readers how they can adapt their emotional intelligence to manifest success in every area of their lives. He focuses on the fact that emotional intelligence is not a fixed entity. Instead, with awareness, motivation, and persistence, it can be moulded to yield positive results and form the foundation of a positive society.

Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ was first published in 1995 by Bantam Books. It received highly positive reviews for its fresh insight on a crucial, minimally explored subject matter like emotional intelligence. The book went on to become a bestseller.