How Smart Are You ?

"The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled."– Plutarch

James R. Flynn (of the Flynn effect) latest book “Are We Getting Smarter”? was reviewed in the Wall Street Journal on October 10, 2012.  For those of you unfamiliar with the Flynn effect it is the tendency of a nation’s average measured intelligence (IQ) to rise over time.  Don’t forget that Flynn is comparing individuals’ sub test scores on standardized IQ tests.

Do you believe that people are getting smarter?  Are you getting smarter as you age?  According to Flynn, modern man does better on some sub tests on an IQ test such as with block design (puzzles) and similarities; but   modern man’s IQ scores have not improved on the sub test arithmetic. On other measures of an IQ test such as vocabulary and general information adult’s scores has risen but   not for children. On the other hand, Flynn believes that modern humans are more comfortable with abstract classification, logic, and hypotheticals. According to Flynn, verbal intelligence peaks in middle age and then slowly declines. People with high IQ scores (analytical intelligence) decline far less than in people with low IQs .The most analytically powerful teens  seem to end up being the most analytically powerful retirees.

 on the other hand according to a General Social Survey, studies of scientific knowledge conclude that most American adults are scientifically illiterate.  For example, on true- false test they correctly answer 60% of basic questions which is slightly better than chance. The grasp of the scientific method is also similarly dismal. Are our schools failing us? If so, what can be done to reverse this fact?

Remedies for prolonging cognitive powers, according to Flynn, include :don’t retire, keep doing research, keep teaching complex material, play chess, keep up with developments in mathematics etc.

I agree with Flynn’s remedies and would add and let us not forget the role of exercise in our life. Exercise is extremely important for prolonging   intellectual capacity and do not forget it.

Yesterday, Secretariat, Farah, Matt and I did about an 8 mile trail run. Secretariat and I were impressed with their speed and Matt’s ability to run the hills. Today, the four of us are going to mark the trails for Saturday’s Cool Ride and Tie. See you all Saturday.

Good luck Randall and Diane on your first marathon.Whatever you do, remember to keep moving.