Neuroscientist: Intelligence involves emotional regulation, not just pure reason

The popular image of intelligence as a purely rational, emotionless process is a misconception, according to neuroscientist Manuel Martín-Loeches. He likens the human mind not to a machine or algorithm, but to an ecosystem or a conversation where impulses, memories, intuition, and reasoning coexist.

Martín-Loeches, a Psychobiology professor and head of Cognitive Neuroscience at the UCM-ISCIII Center for Human Evolution and Behavior, has dedicated decades to studying this complex interplay. His work, combining over a hundred scientific publications with accessible books, explores fundamental questions about intelligence, the inseparable link between emotion and reason, and what truly defines human intellect.

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Intelligence is what you use when you don't know what to do.

Research underscores the profound impact of early life experiences on cognitive development, as noted by the OECD. Furthermore, cognitive neuroscience studies reveal a tight connection between the brain regions responsible for emotion and reasoning. Landmark research, such as Antonio Damasio's work in "Descartes' Error," demonstrates how emotional circuits critically influence decision-making. Studies published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience consistently show the constant interaction between emotional and cognitive networks.

Regarding the definition of intelligence, Martín-Loeches favors psychologist Carl Bereiter's view: intelligence is what you use when you don't know what to do. He explains that applying learned patterns is knowledge, but true intelligence emerges in unprecedented situations, leading to original ideas and creative solutions. He also notes that individuals with higher intelligence often possess better emotional awareness and regulation, though exceptions exist.

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The most intelligent people usually know and better regulate their emotions, although there are exceptions.