Sifts through confusing intelligence theories, arguing that intelligence is a combination of influences involving power, tactics, and content. Good thinking is an unnatural act demanding evenhanded reasoning, problem finding (versus solving), and knowledge as invention. Discusses thinking frames guiding thought processes and the implications for…

Despite its failings, Herrnstein and Murray's "The Bell Curve" is valuable for emphasizing cognition as significantly affecting human performance and social achievement; acknowledging human differences; and offering a frightening depiction of contemporary American society. The authors err in reducing intelligence to a stable, immutable…

Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences ignores certain assumptions about the nature, display, and development of intelligence. Instead of determining how many intelligences a child displays, educators must observe the kinds of activities and roles in which the child shows strength. Teachers should organize curricula around the child,…

Reviews seven multiple-intelligence forms (linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal) and adds naturalist intelligence, the ability to discriminate among living things. Considers a ninth form (existential intelligence), challenges the IQ concept and common testing practices, and urges…

Discusses recent brain-research findings relevant for educators: the brain changes physiologically as a result of experience; IQ is not fixed at birth; some abilities are acquired more easily during certain windows of opportunity; and learning is strongly influenced by emotion. Environmental enrichment unmistakably influences the brain's growth…

Intelligence is here defined in terms of component processes, and three programs are reviewed that train aspects of intelligence as specified by this theory: Feuerstein's "Instrumental Enrichment," Lipman's "Philosophy for Children," and the "Chicago Mastery Learning" program. Central suggestions are provided for…