Define intelligent life.

Seems like a simple question, but try to answer it.
I've been thinking of it for a VERY long time, but can't get the answer.

Go!

 

Intelligent life is extraterrestrial life capable of communication with humans.

And communication doesn't necessarily mean talking. E.g. Dogs can communicate with us - we don't speak the language, but it can tell us that it's happy/wants food, and it can tell when you're not happy with it.

 

So, let's say theres a badly disabled person. He can not communicate. Is he intelligent?

A man, who has no legs, no arms, is deaf and blind. Can not communicate. Is he intelligent?

In my opinion, yes, even though he can't communicate.

 

There is no valid answers on this question because its all relative...

 

You can't "define" anything; everything is circular, relative, or subjective.

 

Is intelligent and more intelligent the same thing? I only ask because you seem to be defining more of what is 'more intelligent'. In saying that, I mean, 'more intelligent than the next thing'. In which case, intelligent life could only be measured by comparison to the next best thing.

I'm not agreeing or disagreeing with you, but it's food for thought.

 

An un-intelligent lifeform is something that operates because of reasoning and logic.

An intelligent being is something that can operate with reasoning and logic.

A being of higher intelligence is something that can understand reasoning and logic.

Diseases are un-intelligent lifeforms. Dogs are intelligent beings. Humans are beings of higher intelligence.

 

While intelligence is subjective and difficult to measure, this is a fairly good definition of the major distinctions between humans and non human animals.

 

the ability to comprehend; to understand and profit from experience
a unit responsible for gathering and interpreting information about an enemy
news: information about recent and important events; "they awaited news of the outcome"
Intelligence is an umbrella term used to describe a property of the mind that encompasses many related abilities, such as the capacities to reason
The Intelligence is a lo-fi post-punk rock band from Seattle, founded by Lars Finberg, drummer of the A Frames.

(MY Definition)

 

Well mr. know it all, I think that is a perfect answer =|