Overview
This section defines intelligence and creativity, outlines key theories of intelligence, discusses emotional intelligence, and explains the concept and significance of creativity.
Defining Intelligence
- Intelligence has been defined as one general factor (g), measured and compared among individuals (Spearman).
- Some theorists see intelligence as a set of distinct abilities, not a single factor.
- Cattell divided intelligence into crystallized intelligence (acquired knowledge and retrieval) and fluid intelligence (problem-solving in new situations).
Major Theories of Intelligence
- Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory identifies three types: practical (street smarts), analytical (academic problem-solving), and creative (innovative solutions).
- Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences Theory proposes at least eight independent intelligences, such as linguistic, logical-mathematical, and musical, though it's criticized for lacking empirical support.
- The Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory organizes cognitive abilities hierarchically: general abilities at the top, broad abilities in the middle, and narrow abilities at the bottom.
- Intelligence may be valued and defined differently across cultures, reflecting cultural priorities and skills.
Emotional Intelligence
- Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and regulate emotions in self and others.
- High emotional intelligence includes showing empathy, understanding social cues, and responding appropriately in social situations.
- Some argue emotional intelligence predicts life success better than traditional IQ, though its definition and measurement are debated.
Creativity
- Creativity is the ability to generate and discover new ideas or solutions.
- Highly creative individuals possess deep knowledge, persistence, risk-taking, and often collaborate with others.
- Divergent thinking (thinking outside the box) is linked to creativity, while convergent thinking means finding established, correct answers.
Key Terms & Definitions
- g (General Intelligence) — a single factor representing overall intelligence.
- Crystallized Intelligence — knowledge gained and the ability to recall it.
- Fluid Intelligence — ability to solve new, complex problems.
- Triarchic Theory — Sternberg’s model: practical, analytical, and creative intelligence.
- Multiple Intelligences — Gardner’s idea of several independent types of intelligence.
- Emotional Intelligence — understanding, expressing, and managing emotions.
- Divergent Thinking — generating multiple, unique solutions to a problem.
- Convergent Thinking — arriving at one correct or well-established answer.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review and compare the major theories of intelligence.
- Watch the recommended video on intelligence theories.
- Reflect on examples of creativity and emotional intelligence in your own experiences.