Then there is thought itself the sort of intelligence which does involve figuring matters out weighing up the pros and cons constructing arguments and solving problems A mechanic working out why an engine will not fire a scientist trying to interpret an intriguing experimental result a student wrestling with an assignment all are employing a way of knowing that relies on reason and logic on deliberate conscious thinking We often call this kind of intelligence intellect Someone who is good at solving these sorts of problems we call bright or clever But below this there is another mental register that proceeds more slowly still It is often less purposeful and clearcut more playful leisurely or dreamy In this mode we are ruminating or mulling things over being contemplative or meditative Perched on a seaside rock lost in the sound and the motion of the surf or hovering just on the brink of sleep or waking we are in a different mental mode from the one we find ourselves in as we plan a meal or dictate a letter This leisurely apparently aimless way of knowing and experiencing is just as intelligent as the other faster ones Allowing the mind time to meander is not a luxury that can safely be cut back as life or work gets more demanding On the contrary thinking slowly is a vital part al the cognitive armoury We need the tortoise mind just as much as we need the hare brain