Intelligence: Nature Versus Nurture
For more than a century, psychologists have investigated the nature of human intelligence. Various aspects of this research have included the definition of intelligence, its measurement, and its etiological determinants. Indeed, some of this research has given rise to considerable controversy. In particular, much debate has surrounded the question of "nature versus nurture." Psychologists seem unable to agree on whether genetic or environmental influences make the greatest contribution to intelligence. While it seems highly likely that both factors have some effect, several studies indicate that the development of human intelligence depends primarily on heredity.
Intelligence is a characteristic attribute of the human species. For the most part, intelligent behavior involves problem-solving. It may include the power to reason logically and the ability to examine a problem from different perspectives. Moreover, it may also be related to a person's capacity to keep an open mind. Lastly, an individual's verbal ability and social intelligence are also important for problem-solving (Weinberg, 1989, p. 98).
As a psychological concept, intelligence has engendered considerable debate (McClearn, 1971, p. 71). Researchers typically belong to either of two distinct groups: the "lumpers" or the "splitters." The lumpers define intelligence as a "general, unified capacity for acquiring knowledge, reasoning, and solving problems that is demonstrated in different ways (Weinberg, 1989, p. 99)." Leaders in this area of research have included Alfred Binet, Theodore Simon, and Charles Spearman, among others. Binet and Simon envisioned intelligence as a "fundamental faculty" consisting of judgement, practical sense, initiative, and the ability to adapt to different circumstances. Moreover, Spearman proposed that all people have a general intelligence, "little g," which determines their inte...