The IQ Test: The Measure Of Intelligence

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The IQ test is an arcane yet widely-accepted method for attempting to quantify the intelligence of human beings. It uses a series of pattern, arithmetic, or vocabulary-centred questions to produce a result in a numerical score. These scores indicate the level of ‘intelligence’ demonstrated with a score of 100 regarded as displaying average intelligence – 70 or below indicating developmental delays, while a score of 130 and above is considered as especially bright. Contrary to popular belief, the 100 score is most definitely not a constant result, IQ tests are frequently adjusted to reflect their time, and the average is always set at 100. This means if an individual takes an IQ test in the present moment and scores a 100 but later takes a test designed a couple of decades earlier they will most certainly score well above 100. The legitimacy of the IQ test has been the subject of intense debate within the scientific community for some time. Those who oppose its use argue its limitations in calculating real intelligence and the incline to which the tests are bias in terms of educational and cultural standpoint. This essay will discuss early uses of the I.Q test and where it now stands on the educational platform as an ‘accurate’ measure of intelligence.

The human brain is one of, if not the most, complex objects in the known universe. For centuries scientists and researchers have been attempting to unlock the secrets and understand its inner functions, so far humans have discovered only a fraction of its astounding power and ability. This begs the question if such an ambiguous and subjective test could truly determine the intelligence of an individual although not knowing the full potential capabilities of the human brain. Despit...

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...ized intelligence test therefore having different validity for various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Since the tests emphasize verbal skills and knowledge that are part of Western schooling, it is unfair to presume it will correctly test the cognitive abilities of other groups. One prime example is the immigration screening process exercised by the U.S government in early 20th century, based on the results of which was used to make extremely far-fetched and sweeping generalisations of whole nations based solely on the test results designed for U.S citizens. An estimated 80% of immigrants were labelled as ‘feebleminded’ in during testing. Due to these results being widely distributed and heavily influencing citizens as well as politicians, the U.S Congress resolved to pass the ‘Immigration Act 1924’ which restricted immigration from a low 3% down to 2%.

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