Naturalistic intelligence is one of Gardner’s multiple intelligences and is the ability to approach and know the aspects of nature in depth.
‘ intelligence is one of the most studied constructs and human characteristics and debated by the scientific community. Many researches affirm and support the existence of only one type of intelligence , univocal and equal for all that allows access to different realities and stimuli; others, however, identify two usually expressed in the verbal or linguistic one and the logical-mathematical one.
This last line of thought and research is, still today, one of the most used and considered. However, in 1983 Howard Gardner developed a theory that embraces the concept of multiple intelligences , or seven different types of intelligence, more detailed and specific than those previously identified. Years later he identified two other types, bringing the number to nine .
Multiple intelligence theory
Gardner in his book “ Frames of the Mind. The Theory of Multiple Intelligences ”(Gardner, 1983) defines the existence of different forms of intelligence , one independent of the other.
They are all present in each individual, but developed at different levels. The different development, therefore, defines the greater predisposition towards one characteristic , compared to another, in a way of approaching reality, of learning, of defining interests and skills, etc.
The nine intelligences identified by the author are:
- Linguistic Intelligence: concerns the linguistic and verbal area, with skill in the use of vocabulary, syntax and semantics
- Logical-Mathematical Intelligence: area of numbers, logical-deductive reasoning and elaboration of abstract concepts and use of symbols
- Musical Intelligence: knowledge and application of musical and vocal knowledge and skills
- Visuo-SpatialIntelligence: intelligence linked to the perception, organization and structuring of shapes and objects in space
- Body-Kinesthetic Intelligence: coordination, motor skills, ability to use fine manual skills and the body in the creation of objects, actions and professions
- Interpersonal intelligence: ability to understand other people’s experiences and feelings and enter into relationships
- Intrapersonal intelligence: the ability to contact and understand one’s internal states
- Naturalistic Intelligence: implies contact with nature and knowledge of it
- Existential Intelligence: ability to question oneself in a reflective way on existential issues
Each intelligence has specific characteristics, ways of manifesting itself and can be trained and enriched over time . Often attempts have been made to associate all kinds of intelligence with professions and abilities that reflect their characteristics and which probably make it possible to better express a specific form of intelligence.
Naturalistic intelligence
L ‘ naturalist intelligence , added at a later time by the author together with those existential, implies the ability to identify and enter into contact with the surrounding nature .
More specifically, people gifted with this form of intelligence observe natural elements with passion, attention, attention to detail and characteristics, identify bonds and approach plants, animals and everything that characterizes the natural landscape with sensitivity and love. .
The study of the environment is one of the main manifestations of this form of intelligence, aimed at discovering the secrets and the spectacular nature of nature, in all its forms.
Alongside this there is the passionate watching of documentaries on landscapes or forms of life, visiting natural parks and environments lost in nature, taking long walks in the countryside, in the mountains, reading books and in general spending a lot of time outdoors.
Who is endowed with this intelligence comes into deep contact with nature , getting lost in it and in the desire to know every aspect, knows and knows how to list and explain the different forms of life of flora and fauna. Usually they are people with “green fingers” able to set up and maintain gardens, flowers and plants or raise animals and take care of them.
They are usually biologists, astronomers, botanists, gardeners, breeders, florists, farmers, geologists, zoologists, etc. therefore all professionalism in close contact with nature and its fruits.
Recently it has been observed how the interest can be extended to the environment in a general sense and therefore to the passion for exploring the reality that surrounds it globally, with a strong ability to recognize, know, identify and explain elements also of human production, with attention to detail and their characteristics.
Naturalistic intelligence: how to develop it
Naturalistic intelligence, like other forms, can be developed and trained. Children who have had the opportunity to live in close contact with nature seem to develop this form of intelligence more.
It is the opportunity to run, play, explore the natural environment, develop the ability to pay attention to the small facets of nature, be interested in them and gain direct experience .
The outdoor game becomes the best way to develop this form of intelligence, with both more structured activities like taking a small vegetable garden, build with natural objects, etc., Is less defined as the simple handling soil, sand, leaves, rocks, wood using all 5 senses .
The activities that can be done are many, not only for the little ones but also for the adults. For example, to encourage walks in the midst of nature , learn to observe carefully, find out about animal species, trees and flowers, visit wildlife parks, see documentaries, read.
Training this form of intelligence is obviously not only the prerogative of a profession that makes the natural environment its main environment and nature the object of study or work, but it is very important to learn how to move in the surrounding environment, respecting nature , understanding dangers and opportunities, characteristic aspects and knowing the reality around him.
