Multiple Intelligences

A New Construct Redefining Intelligence

Intelligence is an abstract concept that is defined by each culture according to its prevailing Zeitgeist. [Page 1579]Since Alfred Binet devised the first intelligence test in Paris, France, in 1904, it has been assumed by most Western cultures that human intelligence can accurately be defined as a single entity (e.g., g, or general intelligence) and measured by an intelligence quotient or IQ score.

A number of alternative, multifaceted models of intelligence have been proposed for more than 100 years, but none has received the sustained worldwide recognition that has accompanied the theory of multiple intelligences introduced by Howard Gardner in his seminal 1983 book, Frames of Mind. Gardner redefined intelligence as “a biopsychological potential to process information that can be activated in a cultural setting to solve problems or create products of value in a culture” (p. 34).

Although apparently simple, this definition results in a number of profound changes in the way that intelligence is conceptualized, identified, assessed, and taught. There are three parts to this definition that impact one's view of what it means to be an intelligent person in any given culture. This definition includes the logical problem-solving skills that are central to IQ (i.e., general intelligence). However, it also expands the concept to include divergent thinking and the creation of valued products (or services). The third component of this definition that pertains directly to diversity in education is the idea that these problems, products, or services are “of value in a culture.”

Based on this definition, Gardner uses eight criteria to scientifically identify which human capabilities qualify as an intelligence. Research to date has provided extensive data to support the identification of eight intelligences: Linguistic, Logical-mathematical, Spatial, Kinesthetic, Musical, Naturalist, Interpersonal, and Intrapersonal.

Eight Criteria for the Intelligences

Unlike traditional unitary concepts of intelligence, MI is not based on the statistical analyses of a few sets of specifically selected tests (typically: linguistic, mathematical problem-solving, and logical reasoning). Instead, to qualify as an intelligence each set of abilities has to fare reasonably well in meeting eight criteria that come from a diverse array of scholarly disciplines.

The eight criteria used to identify the intelligences are as follows:

• 1.
  Identifiable cerebral systems
• 2.
  Evolutionary history and plausibility
• 3.
  Identifiable core operation or set of operations
• 4.
  Meaning that can be encoded in a symbol system
• 5.
  A distinct developmental history and mastery or “expert” levels
• 6.
  Existence of savants, prodigies, and exceptional people
• 7.
  Evidence from experimental psychological tasks
• 8.
  Psychometric findings

Another important factor not explicitly included as one of the criteria is cross-cultural evidence.

Characteristics of the Eight Intelligences

As indicated by Shearer, each intelligence has its own memory system with brain structures dedicated to processing its specific contents, as well as valued roles in the life of a culture and community.

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