In recent decades scientists have been studying the role that empathy plays, work that is increasingly known and understood thanks to a range of authors including ’emotional intelligence (EI) guru’ Daniel Goleman. In my own work I have engaged deeply with emotional intelligence, conducting large-scale research projects in corporations to understand what differentiates their most outstanding leaders (without fail, aspects of their EI abilities), assessing leaders for senior roles, and working in deep coaching partnership with leaders and other individuals who want to develop their emotional intelligence in order fully to step into their capabilities and make a difference in the world.

But what difference? On Monday I heard a new and challenging take on the role of empathy when I listened to Jeremy Rifkin speak at the RSA about his new book The Empathic Civilization.

As I begin to write, let it be said that Rifkin is an exciting and fascinating speaker. At the beginning of his hour-long lecture he took out his glasses and his (is it me, or were they a little scruffy-looking?) notes and began to take his audience on an exciting, stimulating and deeply thought-provoking journey. I was struck by his combination of sharp mind, warmth and empathy. Not once did I see him look at his notes.

What did I take from his talk? His central thesis, supported by all sorts of facts, figures and academic research, is that we have entered the Age of Empathy just as we are heading towards global disaster as a result of our disproportionate and unsustainable use of the planet’s natural resources. The question is, shall we reach a point of developing the depth of empathy for populations around the world that it will take to avert disaster? And shall we reach this point in time? These are compelling questions to which we do not yet have answers.

I was also interested in some of the ground Rifkin covered along the way, including his response to questions at the end of his talk. He cited the internet as a model for the kind of world we need to create if we are going to avert this crisis, because of its open and collaborative qualities. What if, for example, instead of building centralised energy sources, we were to harness local energy sources (sun, wind, rain etc.) and share any energy we don’t need ourselves via some kind of distributive network? This is particularly important since building has the highest carbon footprint (followed by beef production, and only then traffic).

Now, in writing this brief posting I have a fear of totally butchering Rifkin’s thinking. So as well as directing you to Amazon (via the link above) in case you want to read a copy of his book, I also invite you to have a root around the RSA’s website where a recording of his presentation as well as brief video extracts will be posted some time very soon.