Adaptive Intelligence
Surviving and Thriving in Times of Uncertainty

High IQs don't improve the world. Adaptive intelligence does, because it prioritizes the common good over individual success.

Robert J. Sternberg (Author)

9781316607978, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 4 February 2021

250 pages
23 x 15 x 1.5 cm, 0.4 kg

'For readers generally familiar with the field, the challenges Sternberg poses are interesting. For newer readers, the review sections provide a helpful and interesting introduction to the field, and the remaining chapters make clear that the questions and issues are by no means settled business. Sternberg's writing style is both engaging and clear (and thus invites discussion), making this an interesting text to use in, for example, an advanced seminar … Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals.' J. F. Heberle, Choice

Adaptive Intelligence is a dramatic reappraisal and reframing of the concept of human intelligence. In a sweeping analysis, Robert J. Sternberg argues that we are using a fatally-flawed, outdated conception of intelligence; one which may promote technological advancement, but which has also accelerated climate change, pollution, the use of weaponry, and inequality. Instead of focusing on the narrow academic skills measured by standardized tests, societies should teach and assess adaptive intelligence, defined as the use of collective talent in service of the common good. This book describes why the outdated notion of intelligence persists, what adaptive intelligence is, and how it could lead humankind on a more positive path.

Dedication
Preface
1. Introduction
2. What is intelligence? A panoply of views
3. Intelligence as the broad ability to adapt to the environment
4. Why general intelligence may be unhelpful, or detrimental, in times of instability, and for that matter, other times as well
5. History of the theory of adaptive intelligence
6. Measurement and teaching of adaptive intelligence
7. Why do people persist in species-suicidal beliefs and practices and what's to be done?
8. The great adaptive intelligence test.

Subject Areas: Educational psychology [JNC], Moral & social purpose of education [JNAM], Intelligence & reasoning [JMRN], Social, group or collective psychology [JMH]