Why are we more intelligent than we used to be

asks Modge:

A. Because we do more stimulating things than previous generations - we watch TV, surf the net, spend hours talking on the phone...

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Q. I thought all these were bad things
A. Not any more, apparently.

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Q. So, how much smarter are we
A. Average IQ test scores have risen by 27 points in the UK since 1942 and 24 points in the US since 1918, with similar gains across the world. It's such a sharp rise that the average child of today is about as bright as a near-genius used to be. This is called the 'Flynn Effect'. It was first discovered in 1987, but scientists didn't know what was causing it. Now a study in American Psychological Review shows that a stimulating environment is vital in increasing intelligence.

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Q. Isn't intelligence inherited
A. Yes, to a degree. Studies using twins and adoption research suggest that 75% of our intelligence is inherited. Improved education helps a lot, too, of course. But scientists believe that a stimulating environment makes people think more and search out more stimulation.

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Q. So, if you're smart, you'll get smarter
A. Yes. The smarter you are, the more likely you are to enjoy books, puzzles and challenging jobs. All those set your brain to work more, and you choose even higher levels of stimulation.

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Q. What if you're not so smart to begin with
A. You're still benefiting from a stimulating environment. For example, even people in less skilled jobs are using computers. Time is being save by dishwashers and so on, leaving people more time to engage their brains in other pursuits. Quiz shows on TV bombard viewers with information and challenge their memory. Computer games and setting the video make you use your brain. Having a smaller family than previous generations, too, allows parents more time to pursue their own interests or keep working.

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Q. Where will it all end
A. According to the researchers, there is a limit, but we may� not reach it for 200 more years.

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By Sheena Miller
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