One constant theory amongst all advocates for socially responsible leadership, Philosophers, Sociologists and Pundits alike is that;  for human beings to survive we need Consciousness at the Leadership Level . The only academic discipline that addresses this arena is Spiritual Intelligence (SQ). 

Spiritual intelligence is a term used by some philosophers, psychologists, and developmental theorists to indicate spiritual parallels with IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and EQ (Emotional Quotient).

Danah Zohar coined the term “spiritual intelligence” and introduced the idea in 1997 in her book Re-Wiring the Corporate Brain

The term “Spiritual Intelligence” is not religious or faith-based. It is a conceptual part of humanity that encompasses “our perceptions of purpose, our principles, and our morals”.  Pursuing Spiritual Intelligence is about affirming your higher values.
In organizational settings, elements of spiritual intelligence can be applied to effectively address a range of issues including, diversity, conflict management, ethical conduct, team building, and leadership.                                                 

Howard Gardner, the originator of the theory of multiple intelligences, chose not to include spiritual intelligence amongst his “intelligences” due to the challenge of codifying quantifiable scientific criteria. Instead, Gardner suggested an “existential intelligence” as viable. However, contemporary researchers continue to explore the viability of Spiritual Intelligence (often abbreviated as “SQ”) and to create tools for measuring and developing it. So far, measurement of spiritual intelligence has tended to rely on self-assessment instruments, which some claim can be susceptible to false reporting.

Variations of spiritual intelligence are sometimes used in corporate settings, as a means of motivating employees, and providing a non-religious, diversity-sensitive framework for addressing issues of values in the workplace.

According to Stephen

In a time of accelerating technological change, climate disruption, global polarization, and institutional decay, the crisis we face is not merely ecological or economic; it is deeply ethical and spiritual. We are not suffering from a lack of intelligence or innovation, but from a lack of collective conscience.

It is within this urgent context that Spiritual Intelligence (SQ) emerges not as a soft or mystical ideal; but as a vital academic and developmental frontier. SQ is not about religion. It is about integrity. It is the intelligence that asks: “Is this the right thing to do?”

🔍 What Is Spiritual Intelligence (SQ)?

Psychologist and author Danah Zohar, one of the pioneers of SQ theory, defines Spiritual Intelligence as:

“The intelligence with which we access our deepest meanings, values, purposes, and highest motivations. It is the intelligence that allows us to dream, to aspire, and to transcend.”

Stephen Covey, best known for The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, argued that SQ is the highest of the four human intelligences (IQ, EQ, PQ, SQ) because:

“It gives direction to the others. It is our moral compass. It guides us to do the right thing.”

While Emotional Intelligence (EQ) helps us regulate behavior and manage relationships, Spiritual Intelligence guides the ethical framework in which we apply all other forms of intelligence.