Future Strategist
Cochran on increasing IQ
Dec 30, 2019
Discover the surprising effects of inbreeding on health and intelligence in European populations. Explore the ethical dilemmas of cloning and genetic modification amidst vital discussions on enhancing future generations. Unravel the complex relationship between historical factors and IQ scores while differentiating cognitive skill from mere knowledge. Delve into the challenges of preserving intelligence in an aging society and examine how wealth influences intelligence, suggesting it may be a key predictor of financial success.
01:05:27
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Quick takeaways
- Discouraging cousin marriages in Europe significantly contributed to increased genetic diversity and potentially higher overall population IQs.
- Dietary factors, particularly iodine intake, have historically played a crucial role in cognitive development and intelligence levels.
Deep dives
Impact of Inbreeding on Intelligence
Discouraging inbreeding, such as first cousin marriages, has been shown to have significant genetic consequences, particularly in Europe during the influence of the Catholic Church. Studies indicate that children born to first cousins can experience a drop in IQ by approximately five to six points and an increase in serious genetic disorders from 1% to 2%. This policy may have contributed to a gradual increase in the overall intelligence of the population by promoting more genetically diverse unions. In contrast, some regions in the Islamic world, such as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, continue to practice cousin marriages, raising questions about the long-term genetic implications in those societies.
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