Final answer:
The Eighth Intelligence is part of Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory, which has been both utilized by educators and criticized for lack of evidence. Intelligence is influenced by a variety of factors, including socialization as illustrated by Chris Langan's story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of the Eighth Intelligence refers to the Multiple Intelligences Theory developed by Howard Gardner. This theory proposes that individuals have different kinds of intelligences, including linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, bodily kinesthetic, spatial, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic intelligences. While some educators find Gardner's theory useful in developing teaching strategies that cater to varied learning styles, critics argue that the Multiple Intelligences Theory lacks empirical evidence and thus its validity is questioned, as indicated by Locke in his critique on emotional intelligence. However, regarding the impact on education, it is widely recognized that environment, disabilities, home life, and other factors contribute to an individual's learning capabilities, suggesting that intelligence is influenced by multiple factors.
Chris Langan's story illustrates that socialization can have a significant impact, potentially more so than intelligence alone, on educational outcomes such as college admissions. Thus, it's apparent that intelligence is not solely a measure of one's innate capabilities but also shaped by a person's social experiences and environment.