The Why Factor
Why Are We Getting Smarter
Jul 15, 2016
Discover why our IQ scores have been on the rise, the impact of modern distractions on our intelligence levels, and the relationship between the Flynn Effect and economic growth in this intriguing episode.
17:52
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Quick takeaways
- The Flynn Effect denotes a consistent rise in average IQ levels over generations due to societal demands for increased cognitive skills.
- Excessive exposure to online distractions could hinder deep thinking and cognitive abilities, impacting attention control and overall performance.
Deep dives
The Flynn Effect and Rising IQs
The podcast delves into the concept of the Flynn Effect, which highlights the trend of rising average IQ levels over generations. This phenomenon is attributed to societal changes that demand more cognitive skills over time, akin to raising the bar in an Olympic high jump. Longitudinal studies conducted by professor Jim Flynn have shown significant IQ gains across various nations, signaling a potential increase in human intelligence. However, there are concerns that the Flynn Effect may reach a plateau, leading to a decline in intelligence levels in the future.
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