What is Intelligence?

            In class the other day we discussed what traits make a person intelligent. As of now, intelligence is measured through intelligence quotient tests.  These tests measure general knowledge, memorization, basic math and vocabulary. It is believed that the higher a person scores on these tests compared to others in their age group, the more intelligent they are. In the field of Psychology, many experts have mixed emotions about IQ tests.

            One example of these types of tests is the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Quotient Test. Participant’s ages range from early childhood to early adulthood. This test is designed to assess the level of cognitive ability in the participant. There are four main components to the test and fifteen sub tests. In order to determine which tests the taker will be administered, they must first take a vocabulary test. This gives the test proctor an idea of what level of test will be suitable. Varying amounts of these tests can be chosen and administered to the participants to test specific areas of knowledge. When the test is finished, the scores are calculated. The scores are then compared to the scores of others’ tests in the same age group("Stanford Binet Intelligence Test").

            Those who are skeptics about IQ testing find many flaws about the tests. One flaw is that because intelligence is an abstract idea and there is not one uniform definition of what intelligence is. In research it is nearly impossible to find make accurate conclusions when there are varying definitions of what is being tested. People’s definition of intelligence is often based on their own opinion on what makes a person intelligent. Another flaw skeptics find is that IQ tests only measure a few subjects. They don’t take into account things such as the participants environment and genetic predispositions.

            In my opinion, I think that intelligence is related to a persons achievements compared to their potential. Everyone has different abilities that don’t necessarily involve general knowledge or book smarts. I feel as though intelligence should be assessed on an individual basis and there should not be one test that is applied to a variety of people. Every person has a unique set of potential and innate skills that they are born with. I don’t agree with the idea that if a person has a low score on an IQ test notion that they are dumb. I feel as though it is bias and inaccurate to compare a college graduate’s intelligence with someone who has a GED or high school diploma.

            I don’t think that IQ tests are a bad idea I just feel as though they need to be improved. I feel as though more subject matter should be added to these tests. I think the test should consider a persons level of education, their culture and biological and genetic influences as well. More components should be taken into account when administering the test to make it more versatile. I also feel as though more tests should be administered among people of varying backgrounds in order to ensure their accuracy.

Nicole Gaspari

"Stanford Binet Intelligence Test." Kids IQ Test Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Mar.
     2012. <http://www.kids-iq-tests.com/
     stanford-binet-intelligence-scale.htm>.