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


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