Page 362 - Understanding Psychology

s Main Idea
Several IQ tests are used to measure intelligence, although there are many views about what constitutes intelligence.
s Vocabulary
• intelligence
• two-factor theory
• triarchic theory
• emotional intelligence
• intelligence quotient (IQ)
• heritability
• cultural bias
s Objectives
• Explain the various views of
intelligence.
• Identify two kinds of IQ tests.
Intelligence Testing
Reader’s Guide
Exploring Psychology
Is This Intelligence?
It is typical for members of the Trukese, a small tribe in the South Pacific, to sail a hundred miles in open ocean waters. Although their destination may be just a small dot of land less than a mile wide, the Trukese are able to sail unerringly toward it without the aid of compass, chronometer, sextant, or any of the other sailing tools that are indispensable to mod- ern western navigation. They are able to sail accurately, even when prevailing winds do not allow a direct approach. . . .
How are the Trukese able to navigate so effectively? If you ask them, they could not explain it.
—from Understanding Psychology by Robert S. Feldman, 2002
Trukese intelligence
Trukese navigation abilities point out the difficulty in coming to grips with what is meant by intelligence. Some might say that the inability of the Trukese to explain their sailing techniques is a sign of unintelligent behavior. It is hard to accuse the Trukese of being unin- telligent, though. They sail successfully through the open ocean waters every day.
VIEWS OF INTELLIGENCE
Psychologists do not agree on the meaning of the word intelligence. Most believe that intelligence is the ability to acquire new ideas and new behavior and to adapt to new situations. Others believe that
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Psychological Testing