Chapter 7
Intelligence As a Continuum
Manifested through Simple to Complex Forms
(5) In lifeforms, intelligence is manifested across a wide spectrum and can even be viewed as a continuum with man at the upper end and the most basic and simplest lifeforms at the lower end. This is illustrated in the table below; however, it does not include all facets of intelligence; also, the order in which each is listed could be altered. The table illustrates the concept of how intelligence should be considered as a continuum. The following list is ordered in ascending complexity.
Intelligence Spectrum
| (A) "Precognitive" recognition of numerous types, resulting in molecules or organisms of increasing complexity. (Intelligence operating on molecular or microscopic level.) |
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(1) First reproducing molecules (proto-organisms); recognition of what
atoms and molecules were needed for reproduction and survival. |
| (2) DNA reproduction (molecules seeking atoms and molecules). |
| (3) Recognition that increased complexity enhanced chance of survival because it allowed organisms to be preprogrammed in advance with more information (rules and advice) to cope with a greater number of unpredictable eventualities. |
| (4) Recognition that an outer protective shell gave added protection and enhanced chance of survival.
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| (B) Unconscious body function; some examples include: |
| (1) Assimilation and conversion of energy. |
| (2) Development of enzyme systems (some systems, such as Cytochrome C., transcend all life forms.) |
| (3) Absorption of nourishment. |
| (4) Excretion of waste material.
- (a) Renal filtration and excretion.
- (b) Liver metabolism and excretion.
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| (5) Temperature regulation. |
| (6) Reproductive function (sperm and ovum production). |
| (7) Immune system recognizing harmful invading organisms and killing them. |
| (8) Blood cell production in bone marrow or extramedullary hematopoiesis. |
| (9) Endocrine system--glandular functions of every type. |
| (10) Higher plant functions. Evidence of intelligent behavior in plants will be presented later in another section. |
| (11) Autonomic system (sympathetic and parasympathetic) i.e., heart and respiratory regulation, vasoconstriction and dilation, gastrointestinal and genitourinary stimulation or relaxation, etc.
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| (C) Instinctual behavior with increasing degrees of complexity, from bacteria seeking nourishment all the way up to man's learning to walk. Most all plant and animal behavior falls into this category (i.e., plant roots seeking moisture, fight-or-flight reflexes, birds flying, etc.) |
| (D) Learning ability. |
| (E) Reasoning. |
| (F) Problem solving. |
| (G) Value judgment. |
| (H) Abstraction. |
| (I) Creative thinking. |
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