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Abstract:
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As we all know, human beings possess intelligence but there seems to be a lack of consciousness that prevents association with the interconnectedness or web of life . This consciousness may be a kind of intelligence. I feel that there is a more effective way of reaching the general public and our children. Action on the various environmental issues facing our world involves harnessing the findings of science to the task, not just the science of global warming, but every scientific discipline that has something to contribute. One such discipline is that of the psychological study of intelligence. Current theories, including the IQ test are limited and out-dated. They do not help promote psychosocial and spiritual development. Intelligence should possess a holistic combination of the affective factors of human life as well as cognitive/abilities skill sets. In this case, the affective factors can include eco-awareness and its resultant components to form a super intelligence; eco-conscious intelligence. The components are humility and compassion, combined with eco-awareness. After all, what is intelligence without these factors? The importance of this theory lies in the fact that if this intelligence could become accepted in the mainstream, the schools may readily pick it up as a way to increase general intelligence , thus making environmental awareness an important aspect in its measurement. This is a unique mode of making fundamental changes in how we view intelligence and consequently how we think and feel about the planet and all of its sentient beings. As an addition to Emotional Intelligence , which has been a huge hit in scientific, academic and popular circles, eco-conscious intelligence could become an important aspect of a more holistic view. We need to instill in children a "sense of wonder" and a compassion for people, animals and the planet, starting with increasing their eco-Q. The result may be the creation of more Gentle Minds in our world.
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