Gardner's Multiple Intelligences: What the Theory Actually Says
Howard Gardner proposed in 1983 that intelligence is not one ability but eight independent ones. Here's how the theory relates to modern IQ research.
In 1983 the Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner challenged the entire IQ tradition with his book Frames of Mind. His idea: intelligence is not one ability captured by a single number but at least eight independent abilities.
The eight intelligences
Gardner listed linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic. A classic IQ test mainly measures the first two.
What critics say
Among psychometricians the theory is contested. Empirically, most cognitive abilities correlate with each other (the g-factor), which argues against complete independence. Read our guide on how an IQ test works.
Practical relevance
Despite the criticism the theory has had major pedagogical influence. For anyone taking an online test, the takeaway is that a single IQ score describes a narrow band – not the whole of your ability. See also IQ vs EQ.
Test yourself
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FAQ
- What are the eight intelligences?
- Linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic. Gardner later floated a ninth, existential, but never fully endorsed it.
- Is the theory scientifically accepted?
- It has been influential in education but is contested in psychometrics. Critics argue Gardner conflates talent with intelligence, and empirically most cognitive abilities correlate (the g-factor), undermining the claim of independence.
- How does it relate to IQ tests?
- Standard IQ tests measure primarily linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligence. Gardner's framework is a reminder that a single IQ score describes a narrow slice of human ability.