Human Intelligence: Theories, IQ, and Multiple Intelligences

Understanding Intelligence: Abstract vs. Contextual

Is intelligence an abstract mental processing ability, independent of context and knowledge? Or are all mental processes dependent upon context and knowledge?

Theories of Intelligence

• Intelligence Quotient (IQ): Unitary, Abstract
• Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory of Intelligence: Modular + Abstract Process
• Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences Theory: Modular / Includes Content + Knowledge
• Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Intelligence Quotient (IQ)

• Compares cognitive ability against the rest of the population.
• Measures spatial, mathematical, language, and memory abilities.
• Measures reasoning and problem-solving abilities, but not knowledge.
• Useful as a predictor of academic success, but not much more.

Spatial Intelligence Defined

Spatial intelligence has to do with space, shapes, size, position, movement, and patterns.

Three Main Problems with the IQ Model

1. Historic problems with the validity of the questions.
2. The widespread public misunderstanding of IQ.
3. The fundamental problem of the “G-Factor” hypothesis of a unitary, abstract process intelligence.

Verbal/Linguistic Intelligence

• Reading, writing, self-expression, comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and facility to pick up other languages.

Musical-rhythmic and logical intelligences are often tightly coordinated.

1. The idea of modular intelligences being entirely independent is often debated.
2. Perhaps these two (Musical-Rhythmic and Logical-Mathematical) belong in one category.

Why is Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Popular?

• Because IQ tests rank by giving a number, while Gardner's EQ offers insight into what type of intelligence you possess, rather than how smart you are. This approach often makes people feel good.

Interpersonal vs. Intrapersonal Intelligence: The Difference

Intra means within; Inter means between.

Interpersonal refers to what happens between people; Intrapersonal refers to what happens within people.

Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Detailed

Verbal/Linguistic Intelligence

• Reading and writing
• Self-expression
• Comprehension
• Vocabulary and grammar
• Facility to pick up other languages

Logical/Mathematical Intelligence

• Mathematics
• Analysis
• Synthesis
• Evaluating strategies and weaknesses
• Cost/benefit analysis

Visual/Spatial Intelligence

• Color
• Patterns
• Texture
• Space
• Shape
• Size
• Movement

Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence

• Controlling bodily movement: aim, balance, agility
• Managing bodily discomfort: stress, discomfort, pain (mind over matter)

Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence

• Tone pitch
• Melody
• Harmony
• Patterns

Interpersonal Intelligence (Between People)

• Understanding relationships
• Understanding groups
• Influencing other people
• Building and maintaining relationships
• Conflict resolution

Intrapersonal Intelligence (Within Oneself)

• Understanding our own thoughts, feelings, needs, and actions
• Managing our mood and emotions
• Staying motivated
• Understanding the thoughts, feelings, and needs of others.