Controversy over the Intelligence Quotient and
Emotional Quotient in assessing individual abilities 2
Traditionally, the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) was regarded as the primary criterion for assessing the intelligence and capabilities of individuals tested. By using specific questions that target different mental abilities, the IQ test score can provide a relative comparison of the academic knowledge and abilities of various individuals (Duveyoung, 1998, p. 1).
However, several factors have emerged to challenge the usefulness and applicability of the IQ in school and work settings. First, it is noticeable that many people who have high IQ have been unable to lead a successful professional or personal life while others with mediocre IQ scores have succeeded (Higgs, 2000, p. 2). Second, the introduction of the concept of the emotional intelligence quotient (EQ) has highlighted the fact that personal and social skills may be more important in determining the overall success of individuals than cognitive abilities. Third, the transformation of the workplace from an authoritarian hierarchy to a network of professionals has also redefined work relationships and the way work is done. Professionals commonly work as a team so that they can utilize the strengths of different individuals in the project. Therefore, a strong self-awareness and an empathic understanding towards other people are important skills in the contemporary work setting ("Street Smarts or Sheepskins," 1999, pp. 1-2).
Therefore, the components of EQ and their impact on the ability of the individuals to accomplish their goals will be examined in greater detail in this paper. It is also important to consider the status of IQ in the new context. Should IQ be dismissed as an obsolete form of measurement that has no function whatsoever in our contemporary world? Or does it still provide important information in assessing individual abilities and predicting individu...