Question

Vimal is brought up in a society which is technologically advanced. Explain the intelligence that is adopted by him. Is it likely to be tuned by the cultural factors? Give reasons for your answer.

Hint:

Remember that intelligence is shaped by cultural experiences. Different cultures value and promote different types of skills. Always try to connect social and cultural factors to psychological development.

Answer 1

Technological Intelligence: Vimal, having grown up in a technologically advanced society, is likely to adopt what can be called “technological intelligence.”
Key features of Technological Intelligence:
Generalization and Abstraction: Such individuals are adept at generalization and abstraction, which are important for developing technological abilities.
Speed and Minimal Moves: They are skilled at tasks involving speed and minimal moves, reflecting the efficiency required in technological systems.
Mental Manipulation: They have high ability in mental manipulation of objects and concepts, which is needed for dealing with complex systems and programs.
Influence of Cultural Factors: Yes, Vimal's intelligence is very likely to be tuned by his cultural factors, because:
Contextual or Practical Intelligence: Sternberg's notion of contextual or practical intelligence suggests that intelligence is a product of the cultural context. In his theory, the intelligence that is valued in any given culture is something that will determine people’s abilities.
Cultural Shaping of Intelligence: Vygotsky believed that cultures are dynamic entities which change with time, and in that process they shape what is considered to be the ideal or successful form of intellectual development.
Universality of Basic Functions: While basic mental functions such as sensitivity to stimuli are universal, the ways in which higher functions (like problem solving) develop are strongly influenced by culture.
Skills Valued by Society: Technologically advanced societies value certain types of skills and knowledge, which in turn get promoted in the educational and cultural environments.
Emphasis on Specific skills: These societies often reward skills such as attention, observation, analysis, performance, and speed, and their intelligence tests often look for these features in people.