X-Message-Number: 4340 Date: 03 May 95 13:09:15 EDT From: Michael Riskin <> Subject: Intelligence I interpret one of Mr. Clark's comments as saying a definition of intelligence is a nearly, if not totally impossible task. Assuming that is true, how is is possible to even discuss the matter, or come to common opinion as to what is a manifestation of intelligence, except for statements as to how it "seems". Perhaps this is the reason that Ettinger and Clark are nearing resolution with an "agree to disagree" conclusion. The discussions apparantly are dependant upon finding an "absolute" definition of intelligence (meaning someone/something is or is not intelligent) rather than a "relative" approach which appeals more to me. Intelligence doesnt exist or not exist to my way of thinking, but is more of a measuring scale concept. Therefore, the question as to whether Einstein is intelligent or not is not an answerable question. If we consider intelligence to be a term that ranks intellectual functioning from less so to more so, and among other criteria, this ranking takes into account, on an arbitrary weighted basis as to significance, such as knowledge base, calculation speed and ability, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, and what is called creativity or original thought, then perhaps Einstein was more intelligent than most human beings, more intelligent than all single celled organisms, and probably less intelligent than some "intelligent life" that may exist out of our planet. I believe that it is a possible, not impossible task, using my approach, to define intelligence and apply it virtually any subject we may wish to evaluate. Michael Riskin Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=4340