Professor Heckman makes it clear that so-called soft skills drive academic and life success. He discusses the benefits of social and emotional skills and argues against determining an individual’s success solely on cognitive skills or IQ, stating that social and emotional skills drive a wide range of positive life outcomes.
Related Resources
Cognitive Skills Are Not Enough Watch Video
This video captures a 2010 presentation Professor Heckman made in Chicago to business leaders and policymakers. Professor Heckman argues that developing early social and emotional skills is critical for creating a productive adult—countering the argument that cognitive skills matter most. An excerpt of his speech is followed by testimonials from business leaders and local policymakers…
Personality Creates Productivity and Prosperity Watch Video
Ken McNeely, President of AT&T California, explains the importance of social and emotional skills—particularly in the early years of a child's life. Professor Heckman reinforces his message by showing that cognitive skills are important, but character skills are essential.
A Scaffolding of Support: 8 Guiding Principles View Summary
Here are outline eight guiding principles for effective investments in early childhood development that promote positive social and economic outcomes by building a “scaffolding of support” around disadvantaged young children and their families. When Professor Heckman presents his research on the economics of early childhood to policymakers and advocates, one question is often asked: “If…
Promoting Human Capital Development: Discussions at the Brookings Institution and IMF View Presentation
Professor Heckman was in Washington, D.C. earlier this month, taking part in a conversation at the Brookings Institution on reducing inequality and later participating in an interview for the second annual Chicago Economics Society meeting at the International Monetary Fund. Both discussions featured the same question: “If we had X dollars to invest in reducing inequality…