Intelligence Inference

How can a degree of intelligence be inferred?

Intelligence can be difficult to define accurately, but for the sake of this post, I’ll try to use the meaning which seems to be commonly insinuated in general. I’ll be referencing “intelligence”, as basically; the ability to problem solve, make accurate predictions, and achieve an intended goal (where physical abilities allow). Part of the reason the definition of intelligence can often vary, and be difficult to specify agreeably, is likely because we don't have a full understanding of it’s function, or the cause of it. This can also make intelligence difficult to measure or determine. So what is a plausible most effective method to infer, or determine this type of intelligence?

Since my description of intelligence included problem solving, predictions, and achieving goals, a method of determining an individual's ability to accomplish these 3 things would likely be the best measuring system. The most well known measurement method of intelligence is likely an IQ test, which seems to be a fairly good example of this idea of measurement method, but is limited in its applicability. An IQ test is limited to only those who can take the test, but not applicable to those who dont understand the language (such as animals), or those who dont have a chance to take the test (such people in history). If there is relevant data about individuals, or groups, there should be a method of best determination of intelligence.

A method more specific than generally measuring the 3 components; problem solving, predictions, and achieving goals, would depend on the particular context, and available information. The process which an individual uses to attempt any of these 3 components, could be a relevant signifier of degree of intelligence within some contexts. An individual using a process of comprehension of cause and effect, is likely to allow much more effective problem solving, predictions, and goal achievement. Comprehension of cause and effect can allow the advantage of applying a previously learned concept, to a new situation (as I further explained in a post from 1.5+ yrs ago; Carry the Concept), allowing more effective problem solving and predictions. In my last post; Adaptive Intelligence, I explained that without comprehension of cause and effect, problem solving and achieving goals can still be done by being adaptable and open-minded, using a process of trial and error, but it is not nearly as effective as using the process of comprehension. 

By this meaning of “intelligence”, a seemingly effective, generalized, overall method of determining the degree of intelligence, would be estimating an individuals’ or groups ability to problem solve, accurately make predictions, and achieve goals. This method should be broadly applicable to various situations and available information. The process used by an individual to accomplish any of the 3 components, should be a decent indicator of estimating their effectiveness, since a process involving comprehension of concepts, should be more effective than trial and error. Understanding the process of function seems like an appropriate method of; Intelligence Inference.