The editors at Best College Reviews decided to take a look at the science behind intelligence. This infographic is the result of our research.
The Science of Smart
Intelligence, from a scientific perspective, is a broad and deep comprehension of our surroundings – "catching on," "making sense" of things, or "figuring out" what to do.
*Disclaimer: Intelligence tests do not measure creativity, character, personality, or other important differences among individuals, nor are they intended to.
Intelligence and IQ
68% of IQ scores fall within 1sd (standard deviation) above or below average
68% are in the 85-115 range
95% fall within 2sd above or below average
95% are in the 70 – 130 range
99.7% fall within 3sd above or below average
99.7 are in the 55-145 range
Average IQ = 90-110
Passing on the Smart Genes
- In a correlation scale 1.0 = total similarity
(Impressive correlations score a .3 or higher)
Similarity of IQ in biological families vs. adoptive families between:
Mother – child = 32% higher
father – child = 24%
child – child = 29%
Genes For Intelligence
The notion that our capacity to learn is influenced by our genes went from "taboo" to "common acceptance."
A number of studies now show a link between specific genes and a capacity to learn.
A Genetic link to intelligence has been discovered.
Three genes: DAT1, DRD2 and DRD4 are associated with academic achievement
The three genes:
Control dopamine (reward) regulation in our brains and determine our levels of motivation, attention and intelligence
Those with a particular combination of these genes were more likely to finish high school and go to college.
Nature and Nurture
"learning is among the most complex things we do, intelligence does not entirely originate in our genes."
50% of variance in educational achievement can be attributed to genetics.
Those reinforced with the concept that intelligence is expandable are more likely to keep trying and succeed.
Children with 10+ "risk" gene variants are 2x more likely to perform poorly in math, especially if they live in chaotic homes or have negative, punitive parents.
Correlation Between Wealth and IQ
How intelligent are the world's wealthiest people?
Carlos SlimNet Worth $77.5 billionIQ: Around 135
Bill GatesNet Worth $64.4 billionIQ: 160
Ingvar KampradNet Worth: $41.8 billionIQ: 98
How wealthy are the world's most intelligent people?
Stephen HawkingIQ: Slightly over 200Wealth: $20 million
Marilyn vos SavantIQ: 228Wealth:not considered among the wealthiest people
Albert EinsteinIQ: 160Wealth: Lost much of his wealth while fleeing Germany
Sources:
