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Are there differences in intelligence between races?

Results so far:

No
68% 448 votes Total: 655 votes
Yes
32% 207 votes

Yes, there are differences in intelligence between races.

My initial reaction to the question had me writing on the other side. However, a more considered response puts me here, for the following reasons.

Intelligence, as a measure of human mental capacity, is very dependent on a narrowly defined set of criteria. This includes age, education, upbringing and experiences. Cultural origins profoundly influence the measure of mental capacity.

IQ is measured using a set of mental tasks, that test spatial cognizance, arithmetic, language understanding, logic and others. The tests are set in the context of a person's race of origin.

For example, an IQ tester in Australia, would prepare a set of tasks based on knowledge, education, societal values, history and culture of Australia. The very way a native Australian processes information, is associated with the norms of Australia.
Now take the Australian (who incidentally scored very well) and place him or her in Norway. Consider that the Norwegians speak fluent English as a second language. The IQ score based on a similar test set for Norway, would be lower for the Aussie. (Some might humorously remark that an Aussie is already at a disadvantage.)
Imagine the difference then, if that person was tested in, say, Russia. The problem is highlighted if social intelligence could be tested.

The only change for the Australian, is the country in the which the test was created. His or her mental processes remain the same. The Aussie though, needs a whole new set of processes to adapt to a new environment, a new cultural background.

Of course, thanks to the marvelous ability of the human mind to adapt, the Australian's IQ would rise after a period of living in Norway or Russia.

A final word. There is no difference between the races in the ability to perform mental tasks when set against their unique cultures. In this particular context, all humans are equal.

Learn more about this author, Miles Togo.
Contact this writer Click here to send this author comments or questions.


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