EVOLUTION OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ON EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE: FROM ANTIQUITY TO MODERN TIMES

Abstract

The definition of «Emotional Intelligence» today is not just a modern concept in pedagogy and psychology. In today's realities, the idea of emotional intelligence is rapidly gaining popularity, because it is the subject of scientific research and observations. However, people have not always perceived emotional intelligence in a modern interpretation. Scientific sources indicate that reflections on the connection between emotions and reason date back to antiquity and, having gone through a certain path of evolution, have reached the modern understanding of emotional intelligence. The modern system of higher education in Ukraine sets itself the task not only of transferring academic knowledge, but also of forming a personality ready for self-realization and competitiveness in the labor market. This requires the development of not only «hard» (skills), but also «soft» (soft skills). Among the key «soft» (soft skills) skills necessary for higher education applicants include emotional and social intelligence, empathy, motivation, sociability, flexibility, etc. The purpose of the article is to study the evolution of scientific approaches to the study of emotional intelligence, which will allow us to trace its formation as an important scientific concept. The definition of the concept of «emotional intelligence» was carried out through the analysis and synthesis of scientific sources, which made it possible to systematize existing approaches. The historical method helped to trace the evolution of ideas, and the logical method - to reveal their current state and internal connections. In addition, the comparative-typological method allowed to identify common features and differences between different concepts. In the scientific article, the author traces the stages of evolution of scientific approaches to the study of emotional intelligence. Also, it is considered how emotions and intelligence were related in different historical periods. Analysis of the works of philosophers and scientists of different eras, from Aristotle to Daniel Goleman, demonstrates that the idea of the connection between emotions and intelligence has deep historical roots. It is proven that the study of emotional intelligence is a relevant vector for modern education and professional activity, since its formation has a positive impact on mental health, interpersonal relationships, self-development and success. The results of this research demonstrate the history of the emergence of the concept of emotional intelligence, what I understand by emotional intelligence, and also that emotional intelligence is critically important for success in almost all areas of life. It has a positive impact on: mental health, interpersonal relationships, professional activities, etc. Emotional intelligence is a relevant vector for modern education and professional development. Studying this topic allows better understandment of yourself, your emotions and the emotions of others, which opens the way to personal growth and greater success in life.