naturalistic intelligence It is one of the eight multiple intelligences proposed by psychologist Howard Gardner in 1983. Although it was not initially considered as a separate intelligence, Gardner integrated it into his theory in 1995, recognizing its relevance to understanding how people interact with their natural environment. This intelligence refers to the ability to observe, classify and understand the natural world, including animals, plants and environmental phenomena.
What really makes this intelligence special is its ability to recognize patterns in nature, detect changes in the environment, and have an intuitive connection with nature. Throughout this article, we will explore in depth the main characteristics of naturalistic intelligence, examples of how it manifests, and activities to develop it.
Key features
People with a high naturalistic intelligence usually present several distinctive characteristics that connect them deeply with the environment. These people not only appreciate nature, but they also have a very relevant capacity for analysis and understanding of phenomena. Some of the main skills of those who possess this type of intelligence are:
- Sensitivity to environmental details: People with naturalistic intelligence are extremely observant, detecting subtle changes in the climate, vegetation or animal behavior. This allows them to anticipate natural phenomena and understand biological cycles with precision.
- Ability to classify species and natural elements: These people tend to organize and categorize what they observe. They can distinguish species of plants or animals with ease, which allows them to identify similarities and differences within an ecosystem.
- Deep connection with natural life: They have a special affinity for the living environment. They are aware of the interdependence between living beings and how each action has an impact on environmental balance.
- Understanding ecological processes: They know and understand the processes that maintain balance in nature, such as the food chain, the water cycle, pollination and the recycling of nutrients in the soil.
As environmental concerns grow, this intelligence has gained relevance in many fields, including education and sustainability policies. In classrooms, there is more emphasis on the study of ecosystems and fostering awareness towards environmental protection.
Examples of naturalistic intelligence
Naturalistic intelligence manifests itself in many areas of daily life and in various professions. Some of the professions where it can be clearly seen are:
- Biologists and ecologists: Professionals who study ecosystems to understand how their components interact. They are able to carry out complex research to help conserve species and habitats.
- Foresters and conservationists: These professionals are dedicated to managing and preserving natural resources. They are essential for the sustainability of forests and biodiversity.
- Veterinarians and agronomists: Those who work with animals and plants, respectively, need to have a deep understanding of natural cycles and biological processes, allowing them to more effectively manage the health of livestock and crops.
- Explorers and naturalists: Individuals such as Charles Darwin or Alexander von Humboldt, who made invaluable contributions to the knowledge of evolution and nature through their observations and studies.
Even non-professionals can have high naturalistic intelligence. Simply watching birds or being curious about the animals and plants in your environment are examples of how this intelligence can manifest itself in everyday life.
Activities to develop naturalistic intelligence
If you are interested in developing your naturalistic intelligence, there are many activities you can do. Most of them are related to being outdoors, observing and learning from the natural environment. Here are some ideas:
- Full observation: It's helpful to practice mindfulness in nature to be aware of your surroundings. Take time to listen to sounds, observe the flight patterns of birds, or catalog the different plants on a walk through the park.
- Excursions and trips: Traveling to different landscapes and natural parks will give you the opportunity to observe and learn about diverse ecosystems. The differences in flora and fauna between regions can give you a new perspective.
- Gardening and animal care: Growing a garden or having pets can develop connections with natural cycles as it requires care, understanding and attention to the details of plant and animal life.
- Study of botany and zoology: Expanding your knowledge of the plant and animal kingdom through formal study will allow you to better understand their behaviors and how they interact in their environment.
- Collecting and Classification: Collecting leaves, rocks, insects or shells and then sorting them by type, shape or colour is a great way to improve your observation and categorisation skills.
Engaging in these activities regularly will not only increase your naturalist intelligence, but will also facilitate a greater appreciation for the ecosystems around you.
Common misunderstandings about naturalistic intelligence
There are many misconceptions about naturalistic intelligence. A very common one is the belief that it only develops in people who live in rural areas or who work professionally in the field of biology or conservation. This is not true. Naturalistic intelligence can also develop in urban environmentsEven in big cities, nature can be accessed in parks, gardens, and through observation of urban species.
Furthermore, there is a tendency to think that naturalistic intelligence only applies to subjects directly related to animals or plants. However, this intelligence can be applied in many other fields, such as technology and art, where understanding and replicating complex patterns is also sought.
Importance of having naturalistic intelligence
In the modern world, naturalistic intelligence is more relevant than ever, especially given the increasing impact of humans on the planet. Having a well-developed naturalistic intelligence is invaluable in tackling environmental issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Below are some key reasons why it is important to develop this intelligence:
- Emotional connection with nature: People with naturalistic intelligence tend to have a closer emotional connection to the environment, which motivates them to proactively protect and conserve it.
- Ecological awareness: Those who develop this intelligence have a deep understanding of natural cycles, which allows them to make more sustainable decisions in their daily lives, such as using eco-friendly products and reducing waste.
- Environmental Conservation: These people are often active environmental advocates, working or participating in initiatives that seek to preserve and restore the balance of nature.
Developing naturalistic intelligence not only connects you with nature, but also fosters sustainability and individual responsibility for the planet. Becoming aware of the environment and acting accordingly helps us strive for a more balanced future.
Understanding the natural world better, from small, everyday gestures to large-scale decision-making, may be the key to preserving the environment for future generations. Naturalistic intelligence gives us the tools to do just that.