Five Values of Giftedness

Abstract

This article describes five values attributed to giftedness. The ascription of values to this phenomenon resembles values attached to gifts in gift-giving processes. Whereas gift-giving often includes expectations of reciprocity, each gift possesses a numerical, utility, social, personal, and intrinsic value. Developmental models of giftedness and educational thinking reflect these values. Within prevailing models, the utility value of giftedness reigns. Its numerical value comes second. Social and personal values play a considerable role, yet the gift's intrinsic value is almost absent. This finding leads to the conclusion that the value attribution is unbalanced. This article suggests turning to dynamical-systems approaches, which might balance the value attribution to giftedness. It could expand valuations with the idea of a genuine gift, not requiring reciprocation.

Keywords:

• developmental models
• educational arrangements
• giftedness
• intrinsic value
• numerical value
• personal value
• social value
• utility value
• unbalanced value attribution

Notes

¹This has been the case with the paintings of Vincent van Gogh. The Dutch government also agreed to build a museum for these paintings, which now is world famous.

²For the sake of the argument we do not take into account music with a certain purpose (for example, march music), with symbolic values (hymn), or with a religious value (psalm).

³Being in harmony with others is not identical to intrapersonal intelligence, which Gardner conceptualized as understanding others and working effectively with them (see Gardner, 1999, p. 43).

⁴Frequently mentioned positive characteristics are easily grasping new knowledge; early reading; above normal interests; unusual motivation; being very curious; creative. Negatively valued traits are underachievement, behavioral problems, clumsiness, overly perfectionist, and stubbornness.