Intelligence Quotient (IQ), Essay Example

Intelligence quotient (IQ) is a standardized value that is used to measure intelligence. Individuals that have an IQ of above 100 are said to be above average while individuals with scores below this value are said to be below average. The nature theory of IQ indicates that an individual is born with their inherent intelligence, while the nature theory of IQ indicates that practice and study refine this intelligence. Early studies of juveniles indicated that lower IQ may predispose individuals towards delinquency, which is explained by the nature theory. Meanwhile, the nurture theory argues that delinquents are not simply born with lower IQs, their intelligence was not developed by their environment. It is important to consider that this balance between nature and nurture could be used to gain a better understanding of this concept. While it is likely that the genetics of some individuals predispose people for becoming better at learning and therefore making them more able to achieve a higher IQ, those who study and work hard are better able to accomplish a high IQ within their lifetime. On the other hand, there are some individuals that have trouble learning in spite of repeated practice, demonstrating that there is a natural component to this understanding. Overall, this indicates that if people wish to become intelligent, they must not only rely on their natural talents.