Critical evaluation of Guilford's structure-of-intellect theory

The structure-of-intellect (SI) theory is evaluated within a framework of considerations of capitalization on chance. This empirical problem is placed in a larger perspective of concern for the general conceptual value of the theory in the study of human intelligence. The factor analytic support for the theory is found to be lacking in several notable respects. At best the research intended to support the model must be considered exploratory. But the model has provided a useful scheme for test construction and for indicating interesting hypotheses about qualities of intellect. Even in this context, however, there are several problems with the theory. The theory provides only a static taxonomy and thus affords very limited possibilities for understanding developmental issues.