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Howard Gardner proposed the theory of multiple intelligences. He described the existence of eight distinct types of intelligence. Each of these intelligences are independent of each other which interact and work together to find a solution to a problem. Eight intelligence are as follows:
(i) Linguistic intelligence: It is the capacity to use language fluently and flexibly to express oneтАЩs thinking and understand others. Persons high on this intelligence are тАШword-smartтАЩ. Poets and writers are very strong in this component of intelligence.
(ii) Logical-Mathematical intelligence: Persons high on this type of intelligence can think logically and critically. They engage in abstract reasoning, and can manipulate symbols to solve mathematical problems. Scientists and Nobel Prize winners are likely to be strong in this component.
(iii) Spatial intelligence: It refers to the abilities involved in forming, using and transforming mental images. The person high on this intelligence can easily represent the spatial world in the mind. Pilots, sailors, sculptors, painters, architects, interior decorators, and surgeons are likely to have highly developed spatial intelligence.
(iv) Musical intelligence: It is the capacity to produce, create and manipulate musical patterns. Persons high on this intelligence are very sensitive to sounds and vibrations, and in creating new patterns of sounds.
(v) Bodily-Kinaesthetic intelligence: This consists of the use of the whole body or portions of it for display or construction of products and problem solving. Athletes, dancers, actors, sportspersons, gymnasts, and surgeons are likely to have such kind of intelligence.
(vi) Interpersonal intelligence: This is the skill of understanding the motives, feelings and behaviours of other people so as to bond into a comfortable relationship with others. Psychologists, counsellors, politicians, social workers, and religious leaders are likely to possess high interpersonal intelligence.
(vii) Intrapersonal intelligence: This refers to the knowledge of oneтАЩs internal strengths and limitations and using that knowledge to effectively relate to others. Persons high on this ability have finer sensibilities regarding their identity, human existence, and meaning of life. Philosophers and spiritual leaders present examples of this type of intelligence.
(viii) Naturalistic intelligence: This involves complete awareness of our relationship with the natural world. It is useful in recognising the beauty of different species of flora and fauna, and making subtle discriminations in the natural world. Hunters, farmers, tourists, botanists, zoologists, and bird watchers possess more of naturalistic intelligence.