What is intelligence

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Understanding Intelligence: Definitions, Components, and Influences

General Intelligence and IQ Tests

General Intelligence (g) and IQ Tests
Intelligence is often measured through IQ tests, which are interpreted as measures of general intelligence or "g." This general intelligence is considered a heritable component that influences the acquisition of knowledge and is reflected in various intellectual measures. IQ scores are used to predict educational performance and occupational status, and they tend to decline with age, becoming more congruent with genetic factors over time.

Cognitive Functions and Brain Networks

Mental Abilities and Brain Networks
Intelligence encompasses a general mental ability for reasoning, problem-solving, and learning. It integrates various cognitive functions such as perception, attention, memory, language, and planning. Neuroimaging studies have identified a frontoparietal network in the brain that is crucial for these cognitive functions, supporting the integrative nature of intelligence. This network's distributed nature aligns with the broad range of cognitive abilities associated with intelligence.

Definitions and Theoretical Perspectives

Diverse Definitions of Intelligence
Intelligence has been defined in multiple ways across different contexts. One perspective views it as a corporate capability to forecast changes and identify opportunities or threats. Another approach suggests that intelligence is the degree to which one resembles a prototypically intelligent person, with no single characteristic defining it. This implies that intelligence can be seen as a combination of many empirically derived measures.

Contextual and Adaptive Intelligence
Intelligence is also defined as the mental abilities necessary for adapting to, selecting, and shaping environmental contexts. This definition emphasizes that while intelligent behavior may vary across different environments, the underlying mental processes remain consistent. The ability to apply these processes effectively can differ depending on the context.

Biological and Social Influences

Biological Basis and Lifespan Changes
Intelligence is partly understood through the biology of the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex, and correlates with brain size within humans. The heritability of intelligence varies, with estimates ranging from 0.4 to 0.8, influenced by socioeconomic status and other factors. Intelligence also changes across the lifespan, with raw scores on standardized tests varying across generations.

Social and Educational Influences
Intelligence is influenced by cohort-specific exposures and requires formal education for its development. It is not easily changed but significantly impacts educational achievement, job performance, health, and longevity. The concept of intelligence also includes the ability to solve everyday problems, which can be seen as a form of adaptation to one's environment.

Conclusion

Intelligence is a multifaceted construct that integrates various cognitive functions and is influenced by both biological and social factors. It can be measured through IQ tests, which reflect general intelligence, and is supported by specific brain networks. Definitions of intelligence vary, ranging from adaptive capabilities to resemblance to a prototypical intelligent person. Understanding intelligence requires considering its biological basis, the role of education, and its changes over the lifespan.