TOW# 21 - Howard Gardner The Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence is a commonly referenced text as it has to do with the psychology of every person. The theory states that there are six different types of intelligences, everyone has some of each, though one that is dominant. This seems true to me to some extent, the qualifying statement that everyone has at least some of each intelligence helps its validity. Though I believe claiming there are only six possible dominant categories may be too little. If someone is not very good at one of these does that mean they are not intelligent? Or what if they are even in 2 of the possibilities? If I were to recreate this theory I would address these problems by adding more intelligences, maybe sub categories.
Gardner today would probably still believe his theory was still correct today,there are still clear signs some of his thoughts are correct. IQ tests predict success in school but not for actual adult life. This is because musicians and athletes may not be as intelligent in logic and linguistic. Sighting studies such as that one adds credibility to his argument, making it more believable. Though he does not use any classic model of argument, but it does not affect his argument. His arrangement is so that he can explain his reasoning for each single intelligence, so his arrangement is effective for his piece of writing.

Although this is now common knowledge for most teachers and common people, I do not believe we use this research to our advantage. We do not fulfill the author’s vision with our school’s reliance on standardized tests. This type of testing only appeals to a certain type of person, so someone can appear unintelligent to colleges when really they are just not skilled at test taking. I believe we should be using this helpful theory and knowledge to help create a better future for our youth. We need to focus on their strengths and boost them.

TOW #20 - The Bassoon King

Throughout Rainn Wilson’s memoir he shares all the events that has led up to him becoming the person he is today. After explaining how incredibly nerdy he was while young, playing Dungeons and Dragons in the basement with his friends, his life then transitioned to being a theater nerd instead. Wilson believed that in the moment he was told to join the theater, his entire life changed. His philosophy, as he explains in this book, is that there are specific moments that occur, in the years between 16 and 25, that are specifically remembered because they change your life forever. Considering his memoir is somewhat recent and this has been his view for a very long time, he would still believe this today. His evidence for this theory is only the events in his life. He does not have any sources for this idea but I don’t see this as something he wants to stubbornly convince others of, it is just something he believes. Though because it is a subtle argument, the lack of sources does not affect the argument. Also because this is a small part in a big book, he does not use any model or organization for this argument.

Because I am only at the beginning of the age range that is supposed to have an effect, I cannot agree or disagree. I don’t have enough evidence or experience myself to see if his theory is correct. This shows that only a certain group of people would be able to really explore this philosophy. I also cannot create my own version of this theory. I would imagine he is right, as I have heard how important these coming years will be. Many adults explain the discovery a ten will go through the their college years so I’d imagine Rainn Wilson is correct.