Problem Solving and Intelligence

Deductive Reasoning

Top-Down; General theory → specific conclusion. Guaranteed truth if premises are true.

Inductive Reasoning

Bottom-Up; Specific facts → general theory. Produces likelihoods, not guarantees.

Functional Fixedness

Inability to see an object having a function other than its usual one.

Reliability

Consistency; the test gives the same result every time.

Validity

Accuracy; the test measures what it’s supposed to measure.

Spearman’s ‘g’

One single, generalized intelligence factor that underlies all mental abilities.

Flynn Effect

The observed rise in IQ scores over generations (likely due to environment).

Representativeness Heuristic

Judging a situation based on how well it matches a prototype/stereotype.

Availability Heuristic

Judging the frequency of an event based on how easily examples come to mind.

Deductive vs. Inductive

If the conclusion "must" be true based on the logic, it's Deductive. If it's just "likely" true, it's Inductive.

Representativeness vs. Availability

Representativeness: Focuses on similarity to a category (e.g., "He looks like a librarian, so he must be one").

Availability: Focuses on memory or media coverage (e.g., "I'm afraid of sharks because I saw a news report about a shark attack").

Nature vs. Nurture in IQ

In twin studies, the correlation of IQ is highest for identical twins raised together. However, identical twins raised apart still have a higher correlation than fraternal twins raised together, proving a strong genetic component.