Theory of Intelligence - Essay Example

Theory of Intelligence The essay aims to address a particular theory of intelligence to endorse. Theory of Intelligence Theories that explain the intelligence of a person varies. In 1983, Howard Garner proposed theory of multiple intelligences based on working with individuals with extreme cognitive abilities and deficits, such as in music and math (Sternberg & Kaufman, 2011, 243). Garner initially proposed seven intelligences, namely: musical, logical-mathematical, interpersonal, bodily-kinesthetic, linguistic, intrapersonal, and spatial.

Garner believed that the types of intelligences are determined based on the intellectual giftedness of a person in one or more of the seven intelligences noted. Linguistic intelligence is the ability to think and use words in expressing and appreciating complex meanings. Logical-mathematical intelligence comprises abilities related to computations, quantity, proportions, hypothesis, and mathematical operations. Musical intelligence is the ability to discern pitch, timbre, rhythm, and tone with the capacity to recognize and create music.

Spatial intelligence is the ability to think in three dimensions whereas bodily kinesthetic intelligence is the ability of a person to unite mind and body through demonstrating perfect control of objects and variances in physical skills. Lastly, interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligence are the abilities use in social skills, particularly in understanding and interacting with self and others. The naturalist type of intelligence has recently been added to Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory but has not been recognized as one of the original components of multiple intelligences theory (Sternberg & Kaufman, 2011, 243).

As I studied the different types of intelligence, I would particularly endorse Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory in understanding the intellectual superiority of some individuals. I agree in Gardner’s belief that a person can demonstrate intellectual superiority in one of the seven areas and a balance of intelligence among various types of intelligence.ReferenceSternberg, R.J. & Kaufman, S. B. (2011). Intelligences and Group Differences. The Cambridge Handbook of Intelligence (p. 191-307).

New York: Cambridge University Press.