Intelligence: concepts, theories, and applications

Intelligence

Link to test: http://www.queendom.com/tests/access_page/index.htm?idRegTest=1127

According to this test, intelligence is the ability to discern patterns, analyze information, and perform calculations, and is also heavily dependent on general knowledge of both vocabulary and of the world in general. Because this definition of intelligence is entirely dependent on an individual's store of knowledge and their ability to quickly and accurately manipulate the information the have on hand, this definition (and the test from which it is derived) fits most closely with the information-processing research tradition. While this definition of intelligence has affair degree of objectivity and is at least somewhat on-point when it comes to encompassing true intelligence, I do not fully agree with this definition of intelligence. First of all, it is far too dependent on the facts one has memorized (or encountered), and has less to do with one's ability to manipulate given information, recognize and manipulate more complex patterns, and in general apply critical thinking. In addition, it fails to measure creative potential, which is a definite and major part of intelligence.

While I do not believe that the general intelligence factor or "g-factor" is the sole determinant of overall intelligence, I do believe that most if not all cognitive functioning is the result of an underlying factor that increase intelligence in all or most areas. There are, of course, individuals that have a very high intelligence in some areas without isplaying similar levels of aptitude in other areas -- people who are very skilled ta math but appear to lack extensive language skills, or people who are enormously talented in certain artistic areas but struggle with issues of logic and science, but I believe that this has more to do with upbringing and education than it does with native intelligence. If these people had been given a fully rounded education, that is, I believe the skills in areas in which they are "lacking" would be greatly improved. This does not mean that every math prodigy could also be an award winning poet, as I believe there are different aptitudes for different subjects and areas of learning, but I believe that anyone with high intelligence in one area could also demonstrate at least average if not above average skills in other areas, as well. Critical thinking is a function that serves people well in many different areas of learning, and I believe that it is a sign of the general intelligence factor and can be used to increase aptitude in many areas.