This question has tormented researchers for a long time. More and more work affirms that genetics play a role, at least partially, in the capacities of our brain.
What is Intelligence?
First of all, what do you mean by "intelligence"? Intelligence is commonly defined as "general cognitive ability" or general intelligence. It includes logical-mathematical, emotional, social, and artistic intelligences. This capacity is a predictor of health, and of the educational and professional status of individuals.
However, it should be noted that philosophers, psychiatrists, and scientists have debated for centuries the precise definition of this particularly complex concept, without really reaching a consensus.
How is intelligence measured?
Intelligence is assessed using a battery of intelligence quotient (IQ) tests meant to capture these different aspects. It is this IQ that is going to be used in genetic testing to measure the decisive genetic contribution to intelligence.
However, it should be noted that philosophers, psychiatrists, and scientists have debated for centuries the precise definition of this particularly complex concept, without really reaching a consensus.
So, is intelligence genetic?
In 2011, scientists at the University of Edinburgh published a study suggesting that variations in intelligence between individuals are 50% determined by differences in genes. More recently, researchers from King's College London claim for the first time that they have managed to identify a gene that is directly linked to intelligence. More precisely, this gene known under the name of NPTN would play a role in the thickness of gray matter which would itself be linked to intellectual capacities.
Thus, the structure of the cerebral cortex would be associated with intellectual capacities. It has already been shown that gray matter plays a crucial role in memory, attention, thoughts, and language. Nevertheless, no gene had never been demonstrated so far.
Does your environment influence your level of intelligence?
Environmental and social factors, not taken into account in genetic testing, significantly influence intelligence. Robert Plomin and Ian Deary of King's College London, for example, have shown that the heritability of intelligence increases significantly from childhood to young adulthood, confirming the decisive influence of the environment and the evolution of the level of intelligence. 'intelligence with the experiences acquired during our life.
Other environmental factors, such as education, culture, teaching and the environment, are said to determine 45% of intelligence. Such factors play a preponderant role from an early age.
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