Louis L. Thurstone - Primary Mental Abilities
Psychologist Louis L. Thurstone (1887-1955) offered a differing theory of intelligence. Instead of viewing intelligence as a single, general ability, Thurstone's theory focused on seven different "primary mental abilities." The abilities that he described were:
• Verbal comprehension
• Reasoning
• Perceptual speed
• Numerical ability
• Word fluency
• Associative memory
• Spatial visualization
Howard Gardner - Multiple Intelligences
One of the more recent ideas to emerge is Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences. Instead of focusing on the analysis of test scores, Gardner proposed that numerical expressions of human intelligence are not a full and accurate depiction of people's abilities. His theory describes eight distinct intelligences based on skills and abilities that are valued in different cultures.
The eight intelligences Gardner described are:
• Visual-spatial Intelligence
• Verbal-linguistic Intelligence
• Bodily-kinesthetic Intelligence
• Logical-mathematical Intelligence
• Interpersonal Intelligence
• Musical Intelligence
• Intrapersonal Intelligence
• Naturalistic Intelligence
Robert Sternberg - Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
Psychologist Robert Sternberg defined intelligence as "mental activity directed toward purposive adaptation to, selection and shaping of, real-world environments relevant to one's life." While he agreed with Gardner that intelligence is much broader than a single, general ability, he instead suggested some of Gardner's intelligences are better viewed as individual talents.
Sternberg proposed what he referred to as 'successful intelligence' comprised of three different factors:
• Analytical intelligence: This component refers to problem-solving abilities.
• Creative intelligence: This aspect of intelligence involves the capacity to deal with new situations using past experiences and current skills.
• Practical intelligence: This element refers to the ability to adapt to a changing environment.
