Cultural Intelligence

As twenty-first-century society grows increasingly complex, pluralistic, and multicultural, it behooves Christians to communicate effectively between and among diverse populations. Research indicates that missions often fail because of cultural collision and lack of empathy and understanding between different peoples. David Livermore proposes a meta model--based on sound research principles and social science methodology--for helping Christians intelligently navigate the multicultural maze in Cultural Intelligence. The much-needed skill of Cultural Intelligence (CQ) both at home and abroad is the ability to work effectively across national, ethnic, and even organizational cultures.

Livermore explains that CQ is not simply learning how to externally modify behavior but is based on inward transformation. His work is replete with assessment tools, simulations, case studies, and reflective exercises. Professors and students of missiology, practical theology, ministry leadership, intercultural studies, and sociology in Christian colleges, seminaries, and lay training programs will glean needed knowledge to become culturally sensitive, aware, and intelligent. This addition to the Youth, Family, and Culture series will help individuals and organizations share the Christian message with those of different backgrounds.

David A. Livermore (PhD, Michigan State University) is executive director of the Global Learning Center at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. In addition, he is research fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and a senior consultant with the Cultural Intelligence Center. Livermore has traveled to more than seventy-five countries and is the author of the award-winning Serving with Eyes Wide Open as well as numerous articles and training manuals.