The Fascinating Etymology of the Word Intelligence: Tracing its Origins and Evolution over Time

Intelligence is a word that has become ubiquitous in our daily lives. From school classrooms to job interviews and scientific studies, the concept of intelligence is an essential aspect of our society. However, have you ever wondered where the word intelligence comes from, and how it has evolved over time? In this article, we will explore the fascinating etymology of the word intelligence and its journey through history.

The Origin of the Word Intelligence

The word intelligence has its roots in the Latin term intelligentia, which means “understanding, comprehension.” The term originated in the 14th century and was first used to describe the ability to understand or grasp concepts.

However, the Latin term itself comes from the combination of two words: intellegere, meaning “to understand,” and legere, meaning “to choose or pick out.”

The Evolution of the Word Intelligence

Over time, the definition of intelligence has changed and evolved to reflect the changing values of society. In the 18th century, intelligence was associated with the abilities needed to excel in art, music, and literature. However, by the 19th century, intelligence was viewed as a measure of one’s cognitive ability and problem-solving skills.

One significant development in the evolution of the word intelligence came in the early 20th century with the development of standardized intelligence tests, such as the Stanford-Binet IQ test. These tests aimed to measure an individual’s cognitive abilities and became widely used in public schools and by employers to assess job candidates.

The Multiple Intelligences Theory

In recent years, the concept of intelligence has been expanded to include a broader range of skills and abilities. Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences theory proposed that intelligence is not limited to cognitive abilities but also includes areas such as emotional intelligence, bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, and interpersonal intelligence.

This theory suggests that intelligence is not just a measure of one’s innate cognitive ability but also includes a range of other skills and abilities that contribute to overall intelligence.

Conclusion

The etymology of the word intelligence has a rich and fascinating history that reflects the changing values of society and our understanding of cognitive ability. From its origins in Latin to the development of standardized intelligence tests and the expansion of the concept through the Multiple Intelligences theory, intelligence continues to be an essential aspect of our society and our understanding of what it means to be human. Understanding the evolution of this concept can help us better appreciate its multifaceted nature and its role in our lives.