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Group differences in IQ are best understood as environmental in origin.
Richard E Nisbett1, Joshua Aronson, Clancy Blair
1Research Center for Group Dynamics, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA. nisbett@umich.edu
The American Psychologist
|September 12, 2012
Summary
This study responds to critiques of intelligence research. While acknowledging diverse abilities as intelligence, it finds limited evidence that emotional or social intelligence uniquely predicts intelligent behavior beyond IQ.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Intelligence Studies
Background:
- This work addresses commentary on the authors' prior article concerning intelligence.
- It specifically responds to critiques from Rushton, Woodley & Meisenberg, and Mayer et al.
Purpose of the Study:
- To refute specific points raised by critics regarding intelligence research.
- To clarify the authors' stance on the nature and measurement of intelligence.
- To evaluate the unique contributions of emotional and social intelligence.
Main Methods:
- The study involves a critical response and theoretical discussion.
- It analyzes existing findings and theoretical developments in intelligence research.
- It examines the correlational relationships between various intelligence measures.
Main Results:
- The authors address concerns raised by Rushton and Woodley & Meisenberg.
- They concur with Mayer et al. that various abilities can be considered forms of intelligence.
- However, evidence for emotional and social intelligence uniquely predicting intelligent behavior beyond IQ remains limited.
Conclusions:
- The authors acknowledge a broad definition of intelligence encompassing diverse abilities.
- They highlight the ongoing challenge in demonstrating the incremental validity of emotional and social intelligence measures.
- Further research is needed to establish the distinct predictive power of these broader intelligence constructs.
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