On page 125 of Ori Brafman's and Rod Beckstrom's The Starfish and the Spider, the term Emotional Intelligence is introduced. The chapter its found in focuses on describing the hidden power of the catalyst.

I found this concept an interesting way to consider empathy - as a tool for understanding the situation as the other guy sees it within the context of its application to security matters (or anything you choose to apply it to).

When dealing with people, who are subject to emotions and rationalize with some degree of bias, I think this is very useful. In some jobs it may be critical (such as an advisor) as it helps you understand the "why" of certain actions, build trust and possibly help divine intent and.... advise.