Tom Ellis
Apr 24, 2024

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An interesting assessment, as always, but I have one bone to pick: The concept of a measurable IQ is balderdash, simply because there is no such thing as general intelligence. Rather, every one of us has a unique suite of innate talents and weaknesses deriving mostly from our (unique and random) genotype, coupled with the influences from the environment into which we are born and raised.

So there isn't really any such thing as generic problem=solving ability (which IQ tests purport to measure) because the vast array of "problems" have little to nothing in common. Some require computational skills; others require something more like empathy, or intuitive, "emotional intelligence;" others require something more akin to pattern recognition or aesthetic judgment. These diverse personal aptitudes have nothing in common.

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Tom Ellis
Tom Ellis

Written by Tom Ellis

I am a retired English professor now living in Oregon, and a life-long environmental activist, Buddhist, and holistic philosopher.

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