The Triarchic Mind: 2a New Theory of Human Intelligence

Rejecting IQ tests as too narrow, Sternberg broadly defines human intelligence as ``mental self-management,'' the ability to live one's life in a constructive and purposeful way. This self-help manual dressed up in the jargon of information science will only benefit readers attuned to the author's mindset. A Yale psychology professor whose books include Beyond IQ and Intelligence Applied , Sternberg breathes life into slogans such as these: ``Don't assume the `obvious' ''; ``Be willing to change your plans''; ``Represent a problem in multiple ways.'' He offers guidelines on how and when to adjust to one's environment, rebuild it or choose an entirely new one. Crammed with checklists, quizzes, diagrams and sample problems highlighting decision-making on and off the job, this ponderous how-to stresses the cognitive side of intelligence. Sternberg is less successful in relating intellect to artistic and scientific creativity. (August)