The question of whether human IQ and intelligence are increasing or declining has always sparked heated debates. Waiting for the artificial one you get over us (if it ever will) A recent study from the University of Vienna offers a new perspective on natural intelligence.
By analyzing the data collected by 287 independent samples over a period of more than three decades, researchers observed a significant increase in concentration skills in adults, indicating a Flynn effect positive. These findings challenge the widespread belief that there is a general decline in intelligence, and open new avenues for understanding how our cognitive abilities are evolving in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Rigorous methodology and large sample
The methodology employed by scientists for this research (that I link to you here) was particularly rigorous. They analyzed the d2 attention test, known for their reliability in measuring concentration and selective attention. These tests evaluate a person's ability to process information quickly and react accurately.
The study sample, which included individuals aged between 7 and 72 years, provided a large and diverse database, allowing detailed and reliable analysis of trends over time.
More concentrated adults
One of the most surprising aspects that emerged from the study is the continuous improvement in concentration performance in adults. This contrasts with the common perception that the digital age and the overabundance of information can have negative effects on our cognitive abilities.
Instead, the findings suggest that the challenges posed by modernity may actually enhance some of our cognitive functions, such as the ability to focus attention and process complex information.
IQ of children and teenagers: attention
The results of screening children and adolescents were not as comforting as those of adults. In this age group, the increase in attention spans was not as pronounced.
Scientists hypothesize that this could be due to several factors, including increasing exposure to electronic devices, which could affect attention patterns differently than adults. Furthermore, the natural impulsiveness of childhood may play a role in this dynamic, suggesting the need for further research to better understand these differences.
The Flynn effect and the evolution of intelligence
The Flynn effect describes the increase in average scores on intelligence quotient (IQ) tests observed between 1932 and 1978 in several populations. Since the 90s, however, a stagnation and decline in scores has been noted in countries such as Denmark, the United Kingdom and the United States. To explain this inexplicable phenomenon, some experts believe it is necessary to consider the different "broad cognitive abilities” of the theory Cattell-Horn-Carroll, rather than focusing only on fluid and crystallized intelligence.
However, the study just presented by the University of Vienna adds a new chapter to this narrative. And it indicates that trends can vary significantly based on specific cognitive areas and age groups.
It is important to note that the Flynn effect does not necessarily suggest an increase in intelligence in an absolute sense. Rather, it reflects changes in abilities as measured by IQ tests.
Interaction between macroeconomic factors and IQ
The study went further. As? Also examining the link between performance on attention tests and various macroeconomic factors, such as Internet use and GDP per capita. Although these factors have shown a correlation with test performance, it is clear that more research is needed to fully understand the interaction between these elements and our cognitive abilities.
In summary, the University of Vienna study offers us a more nuanced and complex view of the evolution of our cognitive abilities. Of course, concerns about technology's impact on our intelligence persist, but this research suggests that, at least when it comes to concentration skills in adults, we may actually be improving. This opens the way to new investigations and questions about the future of our cognitive development in an increasingly digital era.
