The Origins and Implications of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) originated from a framework that suggests individuals can possess skills in perceiving, understanding, and managing emotions. Initially popularized by Daniel Goleman, the concept has been critiqued for propagating the notion of personal deficiencies that lead to emotional shortcomings, which can pressure individuals into conforming to corporate expectations. It is argued that EI has been co-opted by corporations as a means of control, nudging employees towards conformity and compliance rather than addressing systemic workplace issues. This creates a dynamic where employees are taught to manage their emotions under demanding conditions, potentially stifling legitimate grievances about their work environments.