intelligens

Intelligens is the capacity to acquire knowledge, reason, solve problems and adapt to new situations. It includes the ability to learn from experience, understand complex ideas, plan and think abstractly, as well as to use language and other symbolic systems. Because cultures differ in what they value, definitions of intelligence can vary, but most approaches recognise some combination of reasoning, learning, memory and adaptability.

Measurement and theories of intelligence have evolved over time. Traditional IQ tests aim to quantify cognitive abilities and often reference a general factor, known as g, that is thought to underlie performance on many tasks. However, many theoretical models challenge a single underlying factor. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences proposes several modalities (for example linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic). Sternberg’s triarchic theory emphasises analytical, creative and practical intelligence. Critics argue that tests may reflect cultural and educational experiences as much as innate potential.

Development and variation are influenced by both genetics and environment. Cognitive abilities tend to be relatively stable in adulthood but can be affected by education, nutrition, health, and socio-economic conditions. Cross-cultural differences in how intelligence is expressed and valued are also widely recognised.

Artificial intelligence refers to machines designed to perform tasks that require human-like intelligence. Narrow or weak AI excels at specific problems, while general or strong AI capable of broad understanding remains largely hypothetical. Key areas include machine learning, neural networks and reinforcement learning. Ethical considerations focus on bias, transparency, safety, accountability and societal impact.

See also: cognitive science, psychology of intelligence, artificial intelligence.