The Central Intellective Factor

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Abstract
The proof of the existence of “g” is more than a methodological problem and concerns the very core of psychological theory. The principles of noegenesis should be identified experimentally before a final opinion can be rendered about “g.” Many general factors isolated in different studies are not necessarily “g.” In the present study a second-order unrotated general factor has been identified by using Thurstone's method. It seems possible to identify this factor with “g.” In the first order, factors that seem to represent the first and second principles of noegenesis have been found. The existence of synthetic and analytic activities and their interplay in intellectual performances is indicated. The relation of likeness is of great interest in explaining cognitive abilities and is isolated both as a first and second order factor. For the final identification of factors the search should be conducted beyond the elementary listing of tests. The dynamic aspects underlying factors are more meaningful than their simple description. The second order gives indications that allow for a better interpretation of fundamental psychological activities.

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