Are IQ Tests a True Measure of Intelligence?

in·tel·li·gence

inˈteləjəns/

noun: intelligence

the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.

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Recently, in my psychology class, my professor mentioned that existing IQ tests are not a true test of intelligence. She argued that IQ tests are set up with educated people in mind, paying little attention to cultural diversity and skill.

For instance, this map shows the accuracy of my professor’s evaluation of IQ tests, due to fact that its representation was created from standardized tests results. According to this map, Africa has the lowest IQ followed by South America and they conveniently placed the Western world and some parts of Asia as having the highest IQ. Is this map a true depiction of IQ? Absolutely not! Until cultural specific IQ tests are created to evaluate the intelligence of people in developing countries, such fallacious and stereotypic generalization must be taken with a grain of salt. After all, some people still believe Africans live on trees. Is it true? No!

A sample of an IQ test

In Howard Gardner 1983 book Frames of Mind, he mentioned that there are 8 types of intelligence, which are:

#1 Verbal intelligence: Words & language proficiency.

#2 Mathematical intelligence:  Calculations and number operations proficiency.

#3 Spatial intelligence: Creativity and technical proficiency.

#4 Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence: Body language proficiency.

#5 Musical intelligence:  Sound proficiency.

#6 Interpersonal intelligence:  People skill.

#7 Intrapersonal intelligence: Mind & life skill.

#8 Naturalist intelligence:  Nature & wildlife skill.

 

So next time before you say someone or a group of people are unintelligent, refer to these traits. I hope you enjoyed today’s post, feel free to leave your reactions and suggestions in the comment section. 

Thanks for reading! ❤️

 

 

Reference: Life Span Development – Santrock 6e