Intelligence is what you use when you don't know what to do: when neither innateness nor learning has prepared you for the particular situation.

The quote "Intelligence is what you use when you don't know what to do: when neither innateness nor learning has prepared you for the particular situation," by Jean Piaget, emphasizes the adaptive nature of intelligence. Piaget, a Swiss psychologist best known for his work on child development, suggests that intelligence is not simply about applying learned knowledge or innate abilities, but about the capacity to adapt and think critically when facing unfamiliar or novel situations. In moments when there are no predefined solutions or clear guidance, intelligence enables individuals to navigate uncertainty and create new approaches.

Piaget's view of intelligence goes beyond memorization or routine problem-solving. It focuses on the flexibility and creativity required to handle situations where standard knowledge or instinctual responses do not apply. Intelligence, according to Piaget, is about the ability to think on your feet, using what you know in new and often unexpected ways. This highlights the dynamic nature of intelligence, where it is more about problem-solving and adaptation than simply recalling facts or following procedures.

The origin of this quote lies in Piaget's theories on cognitive development, particularly his ideas about how children construct understanding through experience and interaction with the world. Piaget's research showed that intelligence is not a fixed trait but a process of growth and development, shaped by the ability to adjust to new information. This quote reflects his belief that true intelligence is revealed when faced with challenges that require innovative thinking, going beyond what one has been taught or is born knowing.

In a broader sense, Piaget’s words underscore that intelligence is not just about what you know, but about how you approach the unknown. It is the ability to stay open-minded and resourceful in the face of challenges, making intelligent decisions when there is no clear answer. Piaget’s perspective invites us to see intelligence as an ongoing process of learning and adaptation, not something static or solely dependent on past experiences.