Cultural Intelligence

The concept of cultural intelligence marks a paradigm shift from a focus on cross-cultural comparison to intercultural capabilities. Cultural intelligence influences research in as many as twenty-three academic disciplines and shapes policies and practices in the private, public, education, and nonprofit sectors. The phrase “two bowls singing” symbolizes in this chapter the resonance of cultural intelligence with two audiences: scientists and practitioners. Scientists primarily address the “what” and “why” questions, while practitioners focus more on the “how.” Striking each bowl therefore requires distinct approaches. Importantly, the “resonance” of each bowl amplifies that of the other bowl, signifying evidence-based practice and practice-based evidence. For the two bowls to sing, they need to rest on a solid wooden base. The base symbolizes institution and community building to broaden the impact on science and practice. The chapter concludes with the author’s future aspirations for cultural intelligence.