This paper discusses problems arising from prevailing definitions of intelligence that are based on a rational paradigm, the typical form of acquiring knowledge in the modern world. Argues that perceptions of "being intelligent" are formed by the requirements of traditional scientific method. Suggestions are outlined for understanding…

Discusses the different characteristics that are often lumped together under the multidimensional term "giftedness." The origins of the term, the contributions of individual psychologists and others in identifying gifted students, and the life outcomes of mathematically and/or verbally precocious youth identified by talent searches are examined.…

Presents a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. The statements are grouped into three sections: the nature of human abilities, individual differences and their origins, and the specific case of gifts and talents. (Author/CR)

Responds to the previous article, which proposed a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Takes issue with the distinction made between natural abilities and systematically developed abilities, and thus the distinction between giftedness and talent. (Author/CR)

Responds to the initial article in this issue that proposes a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Suggests a more comprehensive theory of elite performance composed of three components: general intelligence, domain-specific skills, and practice. (Author/CR)

Responds to the initial article in this issue that proposes a set of 22 statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Argues that a comprehensive rationale is missing, particularly an explanation of developmental mechanisms, of learning processes, and of the dynamics of gene/environment interaction. (Author/CR)

This rejoinder to articles responding to a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents presented in this issue's initial article, defends the validity and usefulness of the distinction between high natural abilities (gifts) and high systematically developed ones (talents) as compared…

This paper updates the discussion of Francoys Gagne's Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT), which proposes a clear distinction between these two most basic concepts in the field of gifted education. Under the DMGT model, giftedness is defined as the possession and use of untrained and spontaneously expressed superior natural…

Responds to the initial article in this issue that proposes a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Offers an alternative psychometric, quantitative perspective that sees gifts as broad, general analytic capabilities, and talents as specific, content-bound capabilities. (CR)

This article describes a continuum of definitions of giftedness from conservative to liberal and discusses how these definitions relate to the development of the 3-ring conception of giftedness. In this definition, above average ability, task commitment, and creativity are seen as 3 interactive clusters of traits that gifted students may exhibit.…

Responds to this issue's initial article that presents 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Suggests putting aside the terms "gifted" and "talented," creating a hierarchical or categorical list of abilities, and downplaying the dichotomous conceptualization of nature and nurture.…

This theme issue of a Texas journal on gifted education focuses on future challenges and options. "A Thoughtful Look at the Concept of Talent Development" (Francoys Gagne) discusses definitions of giftedness and talent and describes a differentiated model of giftedness and talent that includes five aptitude domains: intellectual, creative,…