Of existential intelligence and autism

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of intelligence in relation to social skills and behavior, particularly in individuals with autism or Asperger's Syndrome. The speaker questions whether these individuals lack intelligence or if there is a different type of intelligence involved. They also discuss the influence of societal pressure and individual motivation on the development of social intelligence. The conversation concludes with a comparison between autism and Asperger's Syndrome.
  • #1
GCT
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"An human being is concerned because he or she has learned over the process of time-or is naturally, instinctively, existentially intelligent-the importance of self preservation, the practice of intelligence around the self, that of executive functioning."

Something that's been on my mind lately pertains to the subject of intelligence

Especially in relevance to autism, from what I remember, the IQ range for autistics (Weshler) has a pretty wide range, yet they are socially reclusive, or rather socially unintelligent/unintelligible. Is this an intelligence problem, the important question is of whether these people aren't able to "see" or comprehend certain things that an "ordinary" individual would be able to comprehend. It should also be noted that for the most part, especially in the U.S., most of us are deemed "ordinary." Despite what may be deemed as eccentric habits, when we come face to face with each other, I think that we see ourselves as victims of circumstance. We may label each other, of a lower class for example. But when do we label someone as "retarded" or borderline retarded? Can any of you tell? It is the popular belief that retarded people are drastically different, disadvantaged, from those of us that are ordinary.

The concept of multiple intelligence has become quite popular. Compliability with social customs, or one's social IQ, general forms of conduct as each of us deals with various social situations day by day which may be more or less complicated challenge our intelligence for the most part. Is there a perfect way of handling these situations? The way we see teenagers develop socially throughout adolescence, on the appearance of things, seems fairly natural. But anyone who has gone through the days of adolescence, knows that one gains a tremedous respect for the intelligence aspect of it all, that of executive functioning and strategy. Despite how ignorant one may seem, functioning socially ultimately is a challenge to intellectual development.

Has society developed concrete ways of testing social intelligence? Our society seems to be more concerned with the mathematical aspect of things (scientific aspect of things, technological), those of us that were born in higher classes may be more shrewd than those of us that were born poor. SAT/GRE passages seem to relate towards social intelligence. Perhaps verbal intelligence is a good indication of a social development more or less complete, mature.

Perhaps intelligence is really about motivation, those of us that have strived instinctively or were pressured early on are all to familiar with the problem, that is those of us that are more anxious and preoccupied, those of us that know how to protect ourselves, or know the importance/significance of it, those of us that value ourselves infinitely higher than others and will seek to gain at other’s expense. It seems that society is comprised mostly of people who worry sufficiently about themselves and have their intelligence centered around themselves. In this sense, yes, they are sufficiently "intelligent." A more accurate word would be "compatible." To be more specific, compatibility in the sense of one's ability to reproduce, have a social standing, have friends, essentially one's ability to establish a social network ultimately. To be seen as normal, "sound of mind".


I say all of this because I have met several people in the span of my lifetime whom seem to have adequate intelligence, yet are retarded in the social sense, displaying all the signs of retardation in this area, somewhat autistic. You can ask them to discuss a question of social relevance, or even a science/mathematical question, and they'll be able to answer it with organization and clarity. They're not engaged socially, and do not handle social situations/events very well, and don't show much motivation to do so. However, "intelligence" in general is intact, that is they're able to tackle something intellectually with even superior proficiency. But motivation, related to intelligence of self preservation, seems to be absent.

Perhaps the conclusion is that, those of us who had been pressured, or have a stronger instinct of self preseravation early relating to intelligence centered around the self, may be more aggresive and motivated so that at least the intellectual development of handling social situations is more or less complete. Of course this isn't just intelligence, as the ability to take tests, its about emtional regulation, in essence the ability to have some control over life itself, a long term process in self application. Perhaps this is existential intelligence, and perhaps people with autistic qualities don't have adequate existential intelligence. I truly believe that existential intelligence is something quite different than general intelligence itself.
 
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  • #2
GCT said:
I say all of this because I have met several people in the span of my lifetime whom seem to have adequate intelligence, yet are retarded in the social sense, displaying all the signs of retardation in this area, somewhat autistic. You can ask them to discuss a question of social relevance, or even a science/mathematical question, and they'll be able to answer it with organization and clarity. They're not engaged socially, and do not handle social situations/events very well, and don't show much motivation to do so. However, "intelligence" in general is intact, that is they're able to tackle something intellectually with even superior proficiency. But motivation, related to intelligence of self preservation, seems to be absent.
Sounds more like Asperger's Syndrome than Autism.

Asperger's Syndrome - Physics Help and Math Help - Physics Forums
Address:https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=82221&highlight=Asperger's+Syndrome
 
  • #3


Thank you for sharing your thoughts on intelligence and its relation to autism. The concept of multiple intelligence is definitely something to consider when discussing different abilities and challenges individuals may face. It is important to recognize that intelligence is not a one-dimensional concept and can manifest in various ways.

In regards to autistics and their social intelligence, it is true that they may struggle in social situations due to their unique neurological makeup. However, it is important to remember that just because someone may not excel in one area, it does not mean they are lacking in intelligence as a whole. As you mentioned, there are individuals who may struggle socially but are still able to tackle intellectual tasks with proficiency. This highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing different types of intelligence.

Additionally, your point about motivation and self-preservation is interesting. It is possible that individuals with autism may not have the same level of motivation or understanding of self-preservation in social situations, leading to difficulties in that area. However, this does not diminish their intelligence in other areas and it is important to understand and support them in their unique challenges.

Existential intelligence is definitely an important aspect to consider in the discussion of intelligence and it is something that may be lacking in individuals with autism. However, it is also important to remember that intelligence is not a fixed trait and can be developed and improved upon throughout one's life.

Overall, the subject of intelligence and autism is a complex one and it is important to approach it with an open mind and understanding. Thank you for bringing attention to this topic.
 

1. What is existential intelligence?

Existential intelligence is a concept introduced by psychologist Howard Gardner, which refers to an individual's ability to contemplate and understand the meaning and purpose of life. It involves the capacity to reflect on philosophical and metaphysical concepts such as life, death, love, and the human condition.

2. How does existential intelligence relate to autism?

There is some evidence that individuals with autism may have a unique form of existential intelligence. This is because they often possess an intense focus on certain topics, such as science or mathematics, and may have difficulty understanding social norms and expectations. As a result, they may have a different perspective on existential questions and may approach them in a more analytical and logical manner.

3. Can individuals with autism have high levels of existential intelligence?

Yes, individuals with autism can have high levels of existential intelligence, just like anyone else. While it may be more challenging for them to understand and navigate social situations, they can possess a deep understanding of the complexities of life and the human experience.

4. How can existential intelligence be measured in individuals with autism?

Measuring existential intelligence in individuals with autism can be challenging, as traditional intelligence tests may not accurately capture their unique abilities and perspectives. Some researchers have proposed using alternative measures, such as self-reflection exercises and philosophical discussions, to assess existential intelligence in this population.

5. Is there a connection between existential intelligence and mental health in individuals with autism?

There is limited research on the connection between existential intelligence and mental health in individuals with autism. However, some studies have suggested that a higher level of existential intelligence may be associated with better outcomes in terms of mental health, as it can help individuals with autism to make sense of their experiences and find meaning and purpose in their lives.

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