Intelligence Definition:

    In psychology, intelligence is defined as a “higher level of abilities such as abstract reasoning, mental representation, problem-solving and decision making, the ability to learn, emotional knowledge, creativity and adaption to meet the demands of the environment effectively According to psychologists Robert Sternberg intelligence is defined as “the mental abilities necessary for adaptations to’ as well as shaping and selection of any environmental context.”

Types of intelligence & Harvard Gardner’s theory of intelligence:

    The Multiple Intelligences Theory states that it is to the benefit of both the student and the instructor if the student’s intelligence can be identified. Identifying a student’s intelligence allows the instructor to select appropriate activities for the student in the classroom and guide their learning journey more effectively. This theory suggests that traditional psychometric views of intelligence are too limited. Gardner first outlined this theory in his 1983 book frames pf mind: the theory of multiple intelligences where he suggested people have different kinds of intelligence. Gardner proposed that there are eight types of intelligence and has suggested the possible addition of a ninth known as existentialist intelligence. There are totally nine types of intelligence according to Gardner. Which are explained below:

1.  Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence

    The ability to manipulate both the body and objects with a keen sense of timing is known as bodily- kinesthetic intelligence. These people are able to accurately manipulate objects due to a strong mind-body union. This can be demonstrated in the form of physical skills, for example, athletes and dancers, or in precision and steady movements, such as surgeons and craftspeople.

2.  Existential Intelligence

    The ability to be able to have deep discussions about the meaning of life and human existence is known as existential intelligence. People with this intelligence are sensitive but can rationally address difficult questions, for example, how we got here and why everyone eventually dies.

3.  Interpersonal Intelligence

    While the ability to communicate effectively with others is common knowledge on the basis of interpersonal intelligence, it is not merely limited to verbal interactions. People with developed interpersonal intelligence are also able to read the moods of others. Sensitivity to temperaments and the ability to communicate nonverbally allow these individuals to understand differences in perspectives. Because they can often accurately assess the sentiments and motivations of others, these individuals make good social workers, teachers, and actors. 

4.  Intrapersonal Intelligence

    The ability to understand one’s own thoughts is known as intrapersonal intelligence. Individuals who demonstrate intrapersonal intelligence are acutely aware of their feelings and can show an appreciation for themselves and other humans. Often misconstrued as “shy,” these people are actually self-motivated and able to use their understanding to direct the course of their own lives. Philosophers, psychologists, and religious leaders may all show high levels of intrapersonal intelligence.

5.  Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence

    The ability to express oneself using words and language is known as verbal-linguistic intelligence. This intelligence is unique because it is the most commonly shared human ability. It allows us to apply meaning to words and express appreciation for complex phrases. Through reading, writing and sharing stories orally, we are able to marvel at our use of language. We see examples of this skill in journalists, poets, and public speakers.

6.  Logical-Mathematical Intelligence

    Sometimes misconstrued as simply the ability to calculate mathematical equations, logical-mathematical intelligence is much more than that. Individuals with this developed intelligence demonstrate excellent reasoning skills, abstract thought, and the ability to infer based on patterns. They are able to make connections based on their prior knowledge and are drawn to categorization,

patterning, and relationships between ideas. With experiments and strategy games as two coveted activities, it would make sense that possible careers would include a scientist, a mathematician, and a detective.

7.  Musical Intelligence

    The ability to acutely reflect on sounds is demonstrated by those who possess musical intelligence. These people are able to distinguish between specific pitches, tones, and rhythms that others may miss. Someone with musical intelligence is often a sensitive listener and can reflect or reproduce music quite accurately. Musicians, conductors, composers, and vocalists all demonstrate keen musical intelligence. As young adults, we can witness these people humming or drumming to a self-directed rhythm. Musical intelligence is also closely related to mathematical intelligence, as they share a similar thinking process.

8.  Naturalist Intelligence

    A sensitivity to features in the natural world is most closely tied to what is called naturalist intelligence. The ability to distinguish between living and non-living things was notably more valuable in the past when humans were often farmers, hunters or gatherers. Nowadays, this intelligence has evolved to more modern- day roles such as a chef or a botanist. We still carry traces of naturalist intelligence, some more so than others, which is evident by our preferences for certain brands over others.

9.  Spatial Intelligence

    Visually artistic people are known to demonstrate spatial intelligence. These abilities include manipulating images, graphic skills, and spatial reasoning – anything that would include more than two dimensions. They may be daydreamers or like to draw in their spare time, but also show an interest in puzzles or mazes. Careers directly linked to spatial intelligence include many artistic vocations, for example, painters, architects, or sculptors, as well as careers that require the ability to visualize, such as pilots or salesman.


By: Khadija Baloch

The writer is a student at the Commerce Department University of Turbat

Turbat Kech Balochistan