MagisterCultuum
Great Sage
Actually, we (especially in the developing world; studies have shown that in almost all species those under the heaviest stress reproduce the most, probably as a mechanism to make sure that some of the offspring can survive. Increasing the quality of life in the developing world should make its population stabilize.) are reproducing a lot less than we used to. The world's population is close to plateauing. (The European population is shrinking and the US is stagnant, or at least would be if it weren't for immigration.)
I remember reading something by some prominent scientists saying that intelligence is as much as 80% genetic. That 20% is still very important though.
IQs are rising, but this is probably because children are being better educated in the types of intelligence that are tested. I'm sure that other types of intelligence more necessary in more primitive societies are probably diminishing.
Environmental factors are quite important too. This includes improving nutrition and reduction of environmental toxins. For one thing, even low levels of Lead in the blood stream can decrease a child's IQ by about 5 points, and it also makes people more prone to violence. It is possible that the rise in IQ is due almost entirely to moving to unleaded gasoline (and getting rid of lead paint, ect).
Jews were actually considered an intellectual elite (about tied with Greeks) since Ancient Roman times. I'd expect the tradition of deep study of the Torah before reaching adulthood is important here.
It may also be worth noting that many genes associated with genius are also associated with mental illness. Weeding out specific weaknesses may be weeding out potential strengths.
I remember reading something by some prominent scientists saying that intelligence is as much as 80% genetic. That 20% is still very important though.
IQs are rising, but this is probably because children are being better educated in the types of intelligence that are tested. I'm sure that other types of intelligence more necessary in more primitive societies are probably diminishing.
Environmental factors are quite important too. This includes improving nutrition and reduction of environmental toxins. For one thing, even low levels of Lead in the blood stream can decrease a child's IQ by about 5 points, and it also makes people more prone to violence. It is possible that the rise in IQ is due almost entirely to moving to unleaded gasoline (and getting rid of lead paint, ect).
Jews were actually considered an intellectual elite (about tied with Greeks) since Ancient Roman times. I'd expect the tradition of deep study of the Torah before reaching adulthood is important here.
It may also be worth noting that many genes associated with genius are also associated with mental illness. Weeding out specific weaknesses may be weeding out potential strengths.
