Intelligence
Cognition is the process of thinking, problem solving, and decision-making. Language, imagery, reflection, conceptualization, evaluation, and insight make up thinking. Cognitive psychology is the science of how people think, learn, remember, and perceive. In the previous sessions, we learned about the processing, storage, and retrieval of information to and from memory and expression through language and thought. The textbook states that many people consider intelligence the primary trait that sets humans apart from animals. Others will say emotion, still others will say language sets us apart. Those who consider intelligence to to be the primary trait point out that abstract reasoning is found only in humans.
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Click here to view the video clip "What is Intelligence?"
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We consider intelligence to be of primary importance; however, we do not always agree on the definition of intelligence. For many years, we considered a person intelligent if he or she did well on standardized IQ tests and academics. But standardized tests do not take cultural and social factors into account. Although standardized tests are still used today, they are used with reservation and other factors are considered as well. The textbook defines intelligence as a set of cognitive skills that include abstract thinking, reasoning, problem solving, and the ability to acquire knowledge. Others would add mathematical ability, general knowledge, and creativity to the definition. Regardless of the factors considered, contemporary experts agree that the best definition of intelligence should include abstract reasoning. |
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