Theory Of Multiple Intelligences

The Theory of Multiple Intelligences states that intelligence exists in a number of sensory modalities (styles and abilities), rather than as a single ability. Originally proposed by Howard Gardner in 1983, this theory included eight "modalities" that he identified as musical - rhythmic, visual - spatial, verbal - linguistic, logical - mathematical, bodily - kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic.

Later on, he suggested that existential and moral intelligence might also be worth including. This theory explains how some rare individual, such as prodigies and savants, may exhibit incredible talents in some areas while being average, or even below average in other skill and ability areas. The movie, Rainman, illustrates an autistic savant who is mentally handicapped in most areas of functioning but has a photographic/eidetic memory.