I often think about the topic of intelligence. I think of this topic with many questions in mind:
- How do we define intelligence?
- What do we consider a high level of intelligence, and how is that exemplified?
- How do we grow our intelligence in meaningful, positive ways?
- Do some misrepresent intelligence and use it in manipulative, negative ways?
- How can we stand up and speak from our own place while still acknowledging that there are those who are more intelligent and gifted in the ways of knowing and learning?
Mostly, I believe that no one has the monopoly of intelligence and that intelligence shows itself in multiple ways. For example, there are people who can fix anything--that's a kind of intelligence I admire. There are others who are able to use words in equisite ways. We see intelligence exemplified in multiple categories, and we know that the most intelligent amongst us typically have a good sense of humor, humility, and respect for the great array and depth of knowledge that exist.
There is timeliness related to intelligence too. For example, right now, so many of us are noticing the amazing intelligence of scientists and medical professionals who are grappling with the pandemic. We are awestruck by their pedigree, commitment, and will to keep us safe and end this pandemic. Sometimes, one's intelligence is not respected or regarded with value until long after that person lives, and some great intelligence is virtually invisible for all time. Intelligence is a strange phenomenon in many ways.
As we think about educating ourselves and others, we have to consider intelligence. As an educator, my goal was to give students as much intelligent power as possible--the kind of power that lays a foundation for living a good life, a life that maximizes one's interests, skills, and dreams for self and others. There are some skills and knowledge that truly lay this foundation well. For example, the ability to read, understand/utilize mathematics, and think gives you super powers when it comes to living a good life and making good decisions. Knowledge of the world around you past and present also sets you up for safer, more satisfying life--we learn from the past how to live in the present and prepare for the future. Observing the lives of others past and present is also a great teacher--we can find good mentors in real time and via books/articles for our own lives. Mentors bring our lives strength.
We all vary when it comes to intelligence, and in my opinion, we do well to respect that variation and work to teach each other what we know and what we want to know. What are your thoughts about intelligence? How do these ideas play into your life's objectives and actions? I will continue to think about this in the days ahead. I look forward to your ideas.