Collective Intelligence
The enhanced capability that emerges when groups think and learn together effectively.
Also known as: Group intelligence, Swarm intelligence, Wisdom of crowds
Category: Concepts
Tags: collaboration, intelligence, teams, problem-solving, innovations
Explanation
Collective intelligence describes the enhanced problem-solving and learning capability that emerges when groups collaborate effectively - producing insights and solutions that exceed what any individual could achieve. Research shows groups have measurable 'collective intelligence' (c factor) that predicts performance across diverse tasks. This c factor correlates with: member social sensitivity, equal distribution of conversation, and proportion of women on team. Collective intelligence requires: diversity of perspectives, independence of thought before convergence, and effective aggregation mechanisms. It fails when: conformity pressure dominates, expertise is ignored, or dominant individuals override group input. Technologies like prediction markets and structured deliberation can harness collective intelligence. For knowledge workers, cultivating collective intelligence means: seeking diverse viewpoints, creating space for independent thinking, and designing processes that aggregate rather than average insights.
Related Concepts
← Back to all concepts