BDSIS Public Seminar “The Human Edge: Why Emotional Intelligence Matters More in the Age of AI”

The College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) will host the BDSIS Public Seminar “The Human Edge: Why Emotional Intelligence Matters More in the Age of AI” on Monday 30 March 2026. Please find the details below:

Date: 30 March 2026 (Monday)

Time: 2:00 – 3:00pm

Venue: V1201, 12/F, Jockey Club innovation Tower (Core V), PolyU

Language: English

Speaker: Dr Ling Lam, Lecturer in Management at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and instructor of the internationally acclaimed course Interpersonal Dynamics (aka “Touchy Feely”) on emotional intelligence and leadership

Moderator:

Prof. Alan P.T. Lau,

Associate Dean, College of Undergraduate Studies

Programme Leader, Bachelor's Degree Scheme in Interdisciplinary Studies (BDSIS)

Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Abstract

As Artificial Intelligence transforms the global economy, technical excellence alone no longer guarantees career success or personal fulfillment. This talk explores why emotional intelligence—how we connect, collaborate, and lead—becomes critical for thriving professionally and personally. Drawing on behavioral economics, neuroscience, and happiness research, we'll examine how our brains operate through the analytical "rider" and emotional "elephant." While AI handles cognitive tasks—coding, analysis, and research —it cannot replicate human capabilities: building meaningful relationships, navigating pressures, leading through ambiguity, and making values-based decisions. For students entering competitive markets and building lives worth living, understanding emotional intelligence is foundational to both career impact and lasting happiness. This session provides practical frameworks for developing the self-awareness and interpersonal skills that determine success at work, resilience at home, and fulfillment across a lifetime.

Biography

Dr. Ling Lam is a Lecturer in Management at Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he teaches Interpersonal Dynamics ("Touchy Feely"), the MBA program's most sought-after course on emotional intelligence and leadership. Raised in Hong Kong and a graduate of St. Paul's Co-educational College, he earned his degree in Electrical Engineering at Stanford before joining a Silicon Valley tech startup as an early employee, then returned to complete his Ph.D. in Psychology—a journey from building technology to understanding what makes us fundamentally human. At Stanford GSB, he works with MBA students, executives, and entrepreneurs to develop the self-awareness and relational capabilities that research shows predict both career success and life satisfaction. He brings a unique perspective shaped by his Hong Kong roots, technical and startup experience, and deep expertise in human connection, helping students navigate the complexities of building meaningful careers and fulfilling lives across cultures.

Please register through the link HERE

All are welcome!

Registration deadline: 25 March 2026

Should you have any enquiries, please contact us at 3400 8264 or cus.bdsis@polyu.edu.hk.