Describing what happens to our brains when we connect with others, Goleman demonstrates how relationships have the power to mold not only human experience but also human biology. In lucid prose he describes from a neurobiological perspective sexual attraction, marriage, parenting, psychopathic behaviors and the group dynamics of teachers and workers. Goleman frames his discussion in a critique of society's creeping disconnection in the age of the iPod, constant digital connectivity and multitasking. Vividly evoking the power of social interaction to influence mood and brain chemistry, Goleman discusses the "toxicity" of insult and unpleasant social experience as he warns of the dangers of self-absorption and poor attention and reveals the positive effects of feel-good neurochemicals that are released in loving relationships and in caregiving.
There was a time when IQ was considered the leading determinant of
success. In this fascinating book, based on brain and behavioral
research, Daniel Goleman argues that our IQ-idolizing view of
intelligence is far too narrow. Instead, Goleman makes the case for
"emotional intelligence" being the strongest indicator of human
success. He defines emotional intelligence in terms of self-awareness,
altruism, personal motivation, empathy, and the ability to love and be
loved by friends, partners, and family members. People who possess high
emotional intelligence are the people who truly succeed in work as well
as play, building flourishing careers and lasting, meaningful
relationships. Because emotional intelligence isn't fixed at birth,
Goleman outlines how adults as well as parents of young children can
sow the seeds.
![Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships [AUDIOBOOK]](http://englishtips.org/uploads/posts/2009-02/1234169636_51shmcua7il._sl500_aa240_.jpg "Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships [AUDIOBOOK]")
