Thinking about Existential Intelligence
An often debated later addition to the intelligences model, existential intelligence refers to ‘deep thinking’ or concepts of a philosophical nature. When we use this intelligence we connect to concepts of spirituality and philosophy. It is categorised often with uncertainty and contemplation.
Everyday uses for this intelligence
It is difficult to say when we would use this intelligence in commonplace, except perhaps in a spiritual setting. Many people have used this form of intelligence at some point in their lives though, with contemplations about death, our place in the universe and spiritualism.
Who is a student with this intelligence?
A student with this intelligence will often ask questions relating to spiritualism and the larger universe. They will likely be self-reflective and concerned with their state of being and the meaning of life. This makes teaching approaches quite challenging.
Adult Examples
Mahatma Gandhi Mother Teresa Confucius The Dalai Lama
Career Choices
Counsellor Psychologist Social worker Motivational speaker
Human resources worker Independent business owner Ministry Philosopher Theoretical scientist Psychiatrist
Finding a place in the classroom
It is very difficult to find clear activities for existentialism, as by its very nature it is a very unclear and uncertain mode of thinking. Journal writing, philosophical discussion and studies of other forms of belief can help support students with this intelligence.