As Goleman demonstrates, the personal costs of deficits in emotional intelligence can range from problems in marriage and parenting to poor physical health in adults, and to eating disorders and depression in children.

(New research shows that chronic anger and anxiety create as great a health risk as chain-smoking.) But the news is hopeful. Emotional intelligence is not fixed at birth. Goleman's argument gives new insights into the brain architecture underlying emotion and rationality.

He shows precisely how emotional intelligence can be nurtured and strengthened in all of us. And because the emotional lessons a child learns actually sculpt the brain's circuitry, Goleman provides detailed guidance as to how parents and schools can benefit from this.

The book offers a vital new curriculum for life that can change the future for us and for our children.