Emotional Intelligence as a Means of Survival and Leadership in Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower

Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower(1993) , presents a dystopian world marked by environmental collapse, social disorder, and moral decay. Amid this turmoil, Lauren Olamina emerges as a resilient leader with a visionary mindset. This study explores how emotional intelligence functions as a crucial survival tool in the novel, enabling Lauren to adapt, connect with others, and develop a transformative belief system known as Earthseed. Drawing on Daniel Goleman’s theory, the research focuses on key components of emotional intelligence self-awareness, empathy, motivation, and social skills as expressed through Lauren’s actions and decisions. The paper also demonstrates how emotional intelligence empowers individuals not only to survive but to transform adversity into growth. Through an analysis of Lauren’s psychological depth and emotional responses, the study highlights Butler’s depiction of inner strength as a foundation for community building and healing. Ultimately, the novel suggests that in the absence of traditional support systems, emotional intelligence becomes essential for human continuity and the creation of a hopeful, adaptive future. Additionally, recent Iraqi scholarship has emphasized the role of emotional intelligence in contemporary life.