You hold in your hands a little book written to have a big impact: to save humanity from seemingly intractable challenges. In a calm and lucid response to the powerful "conflict entrepreneurs" shaping our times and keeping people distracted and divided, the acclaimed Dana C. Ackley, PhD offers a practical, effective, and humane path forward. With A Little Book to Save Humanity, Dr. Ackley makes accessible to the everyday reader the fascinating scientific research behind Emotional Intelligence (EQ), highlighting proven methods to apply its lessons for profound personal and real-world results.
Drawing on more than 50 years of innovative work — with families, corporate leaders, and government officials alike — Dr. Ackley considers issues ranging from personal and social conflicts to race relations and political impasses. Intended only to encourage resolution and healing, A Little Book to Save Humanity shows how the human brain can get any of us into deep trouble — and how the thoughtful use of emotions can save us from ourselves. Focused on much-needed solutions, the book is accompanied by a broad collection of online exercises to help turn its insights into impact.
Dana C. Ackley earned a PhD in clinical psychology from Florida State University in 1973. For the next 25 years, he worked with families to help them overcome deep divides and significant challenges. Since the late 1990s, he has served as an executive coach and consultant to organizations, helping leaders bring the best of themselves to nearly impossible jobs. Dana has twice been named a Fellow of the American Psychological Association for innovative thinking in using psychological knowledge to solve vexing problems. He is an internationally recognized expert in Emotional Intelligence, based on his groundbreaking EQ Leader Program, the first comprehensive program for EQ development for leaders. The father of three adult children, he lives in Virginia with his wife Peg.
"Read this book. Better yet, give it to all your friends." - Larry Richard, JD, PhD
"As a brain surgeon, I love this book… this just might be a key to save humanity." - Reid C. Thompson, MD, Neurosurgery
"Don't just read it for yourself or those you love – do it for all of us." - Wally Howe, PhD, Psychology
"This is a must-read book. It's also a must-have book… Invaluable." - Richard A. Shearer, Retired Executive Vice President
"I am impressed by how much wisdom is packed into this little book. With clarity, authenticity, and humor, it is a warm invitation to gather insight through self-reflection…" - Lee A. Learman, MD, PhD
"...a must read for all of us trying to help resolve conflict." - Sean P. Donahue, MD, PhD, Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Neurology, and Pediatrics
"In a world where the extremes seem to drive our cultural narratives, I am excited to read how the solid and large middle can dial down the rhetoric and dial up civility…" - John Owens, Chief Revenue Officer
"This book provides a clear, science-backed path to understanding and harnessing our emotions for a better life and a kinder world. It is a must-read for anyone seeking real, impactful solutions to the conflicts and noise we face in our daily lives." - Chris Morrill, Executive Director & CEO
"Given the unprecedented turmoil of our society in the 2020s, the book's timing is perfect. Dr. Ackley's motive is admirable. Not seeking more acclaim, he's eager to 'pay it forward' to meaningfully benefit future generations." - John Reed, PhD, MBA, MCC
"This little book, grounded in the science of our common humanity, cuts through the noise to show how we truly can find common ground." - Robert B. Kaiser, Executive
