Definition of Intelligence

Intelligence is a fundamental and primordial ingredient of the universe and exists as a part of its basic fabric. It exists in space but manifests itself through interaction with matter-energy. It permeates all living and non-living matter-energy, and expresses itself in a great number of different ways dependent upon the spatial concentration and distribution of matter-energy. Intelligence is evolving toward increasing complexity and is doing so non-linearly. Matter-energy, intelligence-consciousness and space-time are the only perceived ingredients forming the basic fabric of the universe, and are inseparable, interacting, integral parts, interdependent upon each other.

Intelligence is considered to be present in any system, whether simple or complex, that has the capacity for information storage and integration; as well as the ability to make decisions consciously, unconsciously, instinctually, or automatically that lead to purposeful action. Intelligence represents a continuum capable of operating on extremely simple or highly complex levels. It permeates the entire universe, manifesting itself at every level of existence. It has a mathematical relationship to information content as well as the entropic process, as first alluded to by Shannon in his Information Theory. Consciousness is the most important basic property of intelligence and manifests itself at many, if not all, levels. Intelligence has other basic properties which can be defined in somewhat the same fashion that one can describe matter-energy or space-time. One purpose of this book will be to give a comprehensive description of intelligence and relate it to the other basic ingredients of the universe.

The relationship of intelligence to matter-energy, space-time, the entropic process, and cosmic expansion will be explored and evidence will be assembled to support certain basic mathematical relationships:

Intelligence = (Entropy A)(K₁)

This relationship applies to the universe-wide phenomenon where entropy represents heat loss and the universe is assumed to behave like a closed system.

This relationship applies to each separate open system within the universe such as stars, planets, and any individual lifeform, and assumes that higher entropy implies a random, disorganized, disordered system with equiprobable events.

Intelligence = (Volume of Space)(K₂)

(Entropy A)(K₁) = (Volume of Space)(K₂)

This relationship applies to the universe-wide phenomenon.

K₁ and K₂ represent constants. The determination of K₁ and K₂ may represent a great challenge.

Since any scientific theory requires experimental verification, it is hoped that in time this objective can be achieved for the various unproven hypotheses put forward in this theory. Such verification will require a great deal of imaginative thinking, since our current level of understanding of reality precludes testing some of the concepts presented.

The non-linear evolution of intelligence will be traced from its supposed origin, and a method will be postulated regarding the mechanism of its evolution. The comprehensive nature of intelligence will be reviewed and evidence given to support the viewpoint that it represents a continuum.

The following 24 properties of intelligence are postulated, and hopefully will act as a basis for further expansion and understanding of the concept of intelligence.

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