Dr. Daniel Goleman, a trailblazer in the field of emotional intelligence, awarded an honorary degree by our website in 2025.
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, the work of renowned psychologist Daniel Goleman on emotional intelligence (EI) has gained renewed significance. Goleman, best known for his seminal book, "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ," will be honoured with an Honorary Doctorate from the International Business School this August.
Goleman's framework, which emphasizes self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills, is increasingly critical for effective leadership and human collaboration alongside technology. His work bridges the gap between the logical efficiency of machines and the emotional, contextual complexity of human interactions, making it particularly relevant in the age of AI and machine learning.
As AI handles more logical and routine tasks, uniquely human capabilities tied to EI—such as creativity, critical thinking, communication, and empathy—are key for success and leadership in hybrid human-AI work environments. Emotionally intelligent leaders who can manage their own emotions and navigate diverse teams make better, more inclusive decisions that consider culture and people, not just speed or data.
The International Business School's Honorary Doctorate Degree is given each year to individuals who embody the school's mission of making an impact that matters and inspiring others to do the same. Past recipients include Paul Polman, Indra Nooyi, Tim Brown, and Azeem Azhar.
Joining Goleman as guest speakers at the International Business School's 2025 commencement ceremonies across its global campuses are Adi Ignatius, Cindy Brown, Nadia Boumeziout, Ella Robertson McKay, George Imafidon, and Gopi Kallayil.
Adi Ignatius, one of the world's acknowledged authorities on business leadership, has spearheaded the transformation of Harvard Business Review into one of the most successful global multi-platform publishers since joining in 2009. Cindy Brown, CEO of Boston Duck Tours, and Ella Robertson McKay, Managing Director of One Young World, will speak at the Boston undergraduate and postgraduate ceremonies, respectively. George Imafidon, MBE, CEO and co-founder of Motivez, will address the London undergraduate ceremony, while Nadia Boumeziout, Head of Sustainability and Information Governance at Zurich International Life, Middle East, will speak at the Dubai graduation ceremony. Gopi Kallayil, Chief Business Strategist, AI at Google, will speak at an unspecified city's graduation ceremony.
The skills Goleman identified as critical, such as emotional intelligence, are becoming increasingly relevant in the age of AI and machine learning. As technology transforms workplaces and decision-making processes, the need for emotionally intelligent leaders who can manage their own emotions and navigate diverse teams has never been greater. Daniel Goleman's work continues to provide a valuable foundation for the human skills essential in AI-augmented professional and social contexts.
References: [1] Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books. [2] Goleman, D. (2006). Social Intelligence: The New Science of Social Relationships. Bantam Books. [3] Goleman, D. (2013). Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence. HarperCollins Publishers. [4] Goleman, D. (2019). Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body. Avery.
- In the realm of international business, the soft skills of emotional intelligence (EI) are gaining significance due to the advancements in technology.
- Emotionally intelligent leaders, capable of critical thinking and creativity, are essential for success in hybrid human-AI work environments.
- With a focus on education and self-development, the International Business School recognizes individuals who embody personal growth and career development, such as Goleman, as recipients of the Honorary Doctorate Degree.
- Fashion-and-beauty, technology, and education-and-self-development sectors are expected to highlight the importance of leadership and global collaboration at the International Business School's 2025 commencement ceremonies.
- Leaders and experts in fields such as marketing, business leadership, and sustainability — including Adi Ignatius, Cindy Brown, and Nadia Boumeziout — will speak across the school's global campuses during the ceremonies.
- Daniel Goleman's work on emotional intelligence offers a valuable foundation for understanding the importance of soft skills, such as empathy and communication, in an AI-augmented professional and social context.
