8 Intelligences: Are You a Jack of All Trades or a Master of One? | Howard Gardner | Big Think

Summary

In this transcript, Howard Gardner presents his theory of multiple intelligences, expanding the traditional view of intelligence beyond IQ tests. He identifies eight key intelligences, including linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist intelligence. Gardner also introduces two additional potential intelligences: pedagogical intelligence, the ability to teach, and existential intelligence, the capacity for deep philosophical thinking. The theory emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing diverse strengths, allowing for a more inclusive understanding of human potential.

Takeaways

• 😀 Linguistic Intelligence refers to the ability to use language effectively, seen in poets, writers, and orators.
• 😀 Logical-Mathematical Intelligence is the capacity for reasoning, mathematical problem solving, and scientific thinking.
• 😀 Musical Intelligence involves the ability to appreciate, create, and perform music, whether vocally or instrumentally.
• 😀 Spatial Intelligence allows individuals to visualize and manipulate objects and navigate large spaces, like in chess or aviation.
• 😀 Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence includes the ability to use the body to solve problems or create, common in athletes and craftsmen.
• 😀 Interpersonal Intelligence is the ability to understand and interact with others, essential for leaders, teachers, and collaborators.
• 😀 Intrapersonal Intelligence involves self-awareness, emotional regulation, and personal growth, important for navigating modern life.
• 😀 Naturalist Intelligence is the ability to recognize patterns in nature and make distinctions between different species or elements.
• 😀 Pedagogical Intelligence is the capacity to teach others effectively, even young children demonstrate this ability from an early age.
• 😀 Existential Intelligence relates to deep philosophical and existential questions, helping individuals explore life’s bigger meaning.
• 😀 Gardner challenges the idea of a singular intelligence by proposing multiple intelligences, broadening our understanding of human potential.
• 😀 The decision to focus on strengths or work on weaknesses depends on personal values, not scientific advice, especially in career or education.
• 😀 Intelligence isn’t fixed or limited to traditional measures like IQ, allowing for personal growth across multiple areas over time.
• 😀 Gardner rejects the idea of humor, cooking, or sexual intelligences, emphasizing that they stem from logical or other existing intelligences.

Q & A

What are the two intelligences most valued by traditional IQ tests?

Traditional IQ tests primarily valorize linguistic intelligence (the ability to use language effectively) and logical-mathematical intelligence (the ability to reason logically and solve mathematical problems).

Why does Gardner believe musical intelligence is as valid as linguistic or logical intelligence?

Gardner argues that musical intelligence, which involves sensitivity to tones, rhythms, and timbres, should be considered an intelligence because, like linguistic intelligence, it involves a deep cognitive ability. He challenges the assumption that music is just a talent and not an intelligence, drawing a parallel to how linguistic ability is regarded.

What is the difference between spatial intelligence for small-scale and large-scale navigation?

Small-scale spatial intelligence involves the ability to manipulate and work in confined spaces, such as a chessboard or operating on a patient. Large-scale spatial intelligence, on the other hand, relates to navigating vast spaces, like when piloting an airplane or commanding a ship.

How does bodily-kinesthetic intelligence manifest in different individuals?

Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence can be seen in athletes and dancers, who use their whole body for expression and problem-solving. It also manifests in craftsmen, who use fine motor skills and their hands to create or repair objects, even if they are not athletic or dancers.

What role does interpersonal intelligence play in daily life?

Interpersonal intelligence is crucial for understanding, motivating, leading, and cooperating with others. It’s needed in almost every workplace, as well as in personal relationships. This intelligence helps individuals navigate social interactions, whether in a leadership role or as a team member.

Why is intrapersonal intelligence particularly important in modern society?

Intrapersonal intelligence, which involves understanding oneself and one’s emotions, is increasingly important in today’s world, where people often lead independent, self-directed lives. Understanding oneself is essential for making decisions about careers, relationships, and personal growth.

How does naturalist intelligence relate to the modern world, despite seeming outdated?

Although naturalist intelligence was historically crucial for survival and nature-based activities, it still plays a role in modern decision-making. For example, consumer choices, such as selecting clothing or products, are influenced by our innate ability to categorize and discern environmental features, which is a form of naturalist intelligence.

What is pedagogical intelligence and how is it demonstrated in children?

Pedagogical intelligence refers to the ability to teach others effectively. Children as young as three or four display this intelligence by adjusting their explanations depending on the age or understanding of their audience. For example, they explain things differently to younger children versus adults.

What is existential intelligence and how does it manifest in human development?

Existential intelligence is the ability to ponder deep philosophical questions about existence, such as the meaning of life, death, and the future. Gardner suggests that even young children exhibit existential intelligence when they ask profound questions, though philosophers and others who develop this intelligence engage with these questions in more depth.

Does Gardner believe humor can be considered an intelligence?

No, Gardner does not consider humor to be an intelligence in itself. He believes humor is an expression of logical intelligence applied to specific situations, such as flipping expectations, but it does not constitute a separate intelligence.