Why Average Intelligence is Often Misunderstood

Many people underestimate the capabilities of individuals with average intelligence, mistakenly believing that such individuals are less capable. In reality, people with average intelligence are often quite capable, yet they lack the confidence or capability to recognize their own potential.

The Influence of Popular Opinion

Average individuals often look to the majority for guidance and validation. They see the power in numbers and frequently follow the majority’s path, regardless of whether it aligns with their own beliefs or interests. This tendency can lead them to blithely walk down a wrong path while claiming moral superiority. It is a common belief that if the majority endorses an idea, it must be the correct one.

Another key factor is the difficulty in accepting personal accountability. When faced with evidence that contradicts their beliefs, average individuals may be too stubborn to admit fault. This stubbornness can stem from a fear of looking foolish or from a desire to maintain their sense of self-worth. Consequently, their intelligence is often questioned, as they do not recognize the value in questioning their own beliefs.

The Distinction Between Intelligence and Smarts

It is crucial to understand the distinction between intelligence and being smarter. Everyone can be intellectually capable of making sound judgments and decisions, but not everyone is more knowledgeable in every domain. Intelligence refers to the ability to excel in all tasks for which one has an aptitude. Someone like Albert Einstein could be incredibly intelligent but may not excel in football.

A person can be more intelligent without necessarily being smarter in a specific area. For instance, someone may have a higher IQ but struggle with practical skills like car repair, while a professional mechanic might have superior practical intelligence in this area. This highlights the difference between IQ and practical intelligence, where one can be more intelligent but not necessarily smarter.

The Psychological Bias of Self-Perception

It has been observed that most people tend to overestimate their intelligence. This bias often stems from a lack of direct comparison in one-on-one settings. When placed in a group setting, individuals are more likely to recognize their shortcomings. However, they often make excuses rather than acknowledge their lower performance. This phenomenon has been observed in both personal and professional contexts.

From a genetic and evolutionary perspective, those who believed themselves to be less intelligent were less likely to survive and reproduce. Conversely, those who felt they were smarter tended to have better opportunities for mating and longer lifespans, allowing them to pass on their genes. This trait became prevalent over time, leading to a society where people generally believe they are smarter than they truly are.

Real-World Examples and Implications

Consider a scenario where an individual with a high IQ is appointed to a position where their practical intelligence is lacking, such as a position overseeing skilled mechanics. A Yale-educated person claiming to be the smartest might be passed over in favor of a less formally educated but more practically intelligent candidate. Such situations often lead to friction and resistance, as the Yale-educated individual struggles to accept the fact that they are not better in every respect.

Here is a specific example: a Yale graduate with a degree in economics was hired for a leadership position in a company. He believed he was the smartest in the room and had a difficult time accepting proof that his colleagues perhaps had more practical intelligence in their specific roles. This resistance ultimately led to him quitting his position, despite the evidence.

The take-home message is that intelligence, whether measured by IQ or practical intelligence, is just one aspect of a person's capabilities. True intelligence lies in knowing when to apply one's intelligence and when to seek help or recognize one's limitations.

Conclusion

Understanding and valuing average intelligence goes beyond simply recognizing intellectual capabilities. It involves acknowledging the unique strengths and contributions of individuals regardless of their educational background or societal status. By fostering an environment that values humility and recognition of individual strengths, we can create a more inclusive and fair society where everyone's talents are harnessed for greater success.