<P> The theory of multiple intelligences differentiates intelligence into specific' modalities', rather than seeing intelligence as dominated by a single general ability . Howard Gardner proposed this model in his 1983 book Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences . According to the theory, an intelligence must fulfill eight criteria: potential for brain isolation by brain damage, place in evolutionary history, presence of core operations, susceptibility to encoding (symbolic expression), a distinct developmental progression, the existence of savants, prodigies and other exceptional people, and support from experimental psychology and psychometric findings . </P> <P> Gardner proposed eight abilities that he held to meet these criteria: musical - rhythmic, visual - spatial, verbal - linguistic, logical - mathematical, bodily - kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic . He later suggested that existential and moral intelligence may also be worthy of inclusion . Although the distinction between intelligences has been set out in great detail, Gardner opposes the idea of labeling learners to a specific intelligence . Gardner maintains that his theory should "empower learners", not restrict them to one modality of learning . According to Gardner, an intelligence is "a biopsychological potential to process information that can be activated in a cultural setting to solve problems or create products that are of value in a culture ." </P>

Who is best associated with a theory of multiple intelligences