Almost everyone intuitively senses what intelligence is. But can you explain in simple terms why you consider a particular person to be intelligent (or not)? Would a person considered intelligent in Poland also be considered intelligent in the U.S. and Africa? Is the intelligence that ensures your prosperity in civilized countries the same kind that would ensure your survival in the jungle?
Definitions of Intelligence
Defining what it is poses many problems. In psychology, there are a number of definitions, and they are all equally valid. Intelligence is:
- The ability to adapt to new demands through the appropriate use of cognitive processes (Stern)
- General ability to perceive relationships and draw conclusions (Spearman)
- An individual's overall ability to act purposefully, think rationally, and cope effectively with the surrounding environment (Wechsler)
- What Intelligence Tests Measure (Hilgard)
Our temperament also influences how we use our abilities.
Types of Intelligence
It is often said that someone is intelligent (or not), and this trait is usually considered innate. However, psychology has established a distinction between three types of intelligence.
- Intelligence derived from genes (innate), also known as Type A intelligence.
- Intelligence resulting from genes and environmental influences, i.e., B intelligence.
- Intelligence as measured by intelligence tests, or C-intelligence.
Emotional intelligence—that is, understanding one’s own emotions and those of others—is a separate issue.
Theories of Intelligence
There are also several theories of intelligence in psychology; their proponents attempt to define what constitutes intelligence and how it develops.
Charles Spearman's two-factor theory of intelligence distinguishes between general intelligence (factor g) and specific abilities (factor s), which are related to factor g.
Raymond Cattell proposed a “division” of intelligence into fluid and crystallized intelligence. The former stemmed from innate abilities (genetic endowment), while the latter was acquired. Interestingly, fluid intelligence should be viewed as a certain potential that can be developed up to a certain age. After that, only crystallized intelligence continues to develop (it can be compared, in simple terms, to experience). It is also important to realize that crystallized intelligence is deeply rooted in a cultural context.
Howard Gardner, in turn, proposed the theory of multiple intelligences, positing that intelligence manifests itself in certain abilities that fall into categories such as: linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal (social), and intrapersonal (self-understanding).
It is also worth keeping in mind Robert Sternberg’s triarchic theory, which posited that intelligence manifests itself in areas such as creative thinking, conceptual reasoning, and practical action
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