Nelson Mandela and Mohanas Gandhi - Essay Example

A Comparison of Mohandas’ and Nelson Mandela’s Intelligence Emotional intelligence refers to ‘the ability to perceive and express emotions, to use emotions to facilitate thinking, to understand and reason with emotions, and to effectively manage emotions within oneself and in relationship with others’ (Northouse, p.27). This trait was shared by Mohandas Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. Through his use of empathy, Gandhi was admired for he was a leader who felt what his people were going through.

Despite the cruel treatment the Indians received from the British, Gandhi led his people through the non-violent civil disobedience policy. Mandela fought selflessly for his people and was jailed for 27 years. However, once in power he did not retaliate, but instead chose to form the rainbow country. (Martin, 2013)Linguistic intelligence can be described as the ability to master, explore and use words to successfully communicate with others. Mandela was a great speaker who wooed and ‘wowed’ the crowd with his linguistic ability.

While in prison, he convinced people to go on a hunger strike to coerce the authority to improve their living conditions. Gandhi was also a prolific speaker. He had a large collection of written works in different fields that are quoted, studied and admired all over the world.They also possessed Interpersonal intelligence. This is the ability to look at people outwardly and understand fears, motivations and intentions and then use that knowledge to influence people towards a desired goal. Gandhi upon reaching South Africa realized that his people were being mistreated and he therefore decided to fight for their rights.

Mandela was also not happy with the apartheid regime that segregated his people. Since he could easily read their minds, he easily convinced them to use violent protests. Gandhi on the other hand convinced his people to uphold the non-violent disobedience policy even though they were being massacred.References1. Northouse, P. G. Leadership: Theory and Practice. 6th ed. Washington, DC: Sage Publication Inc., 2013. Print. 2. Martin, P. (2013). Nelson Mandela: the emotionally intelligent leader.

HayGroup, 2013. Web. 30 Oct. 2014. < http://blog.haygroup.com/nelson-mandela-the-emotionally-intelligent-leader/>.