Would You Take an IQ Increase of 100 Points?

Imagine if technology or scientific intervention offered you an opportunity to significantly enhance your intellectual capabilities. Would you take it? The idea of increasing one's IQ by 100 points is a fascinating concept that has intrigued many. For me personally, while an increase of 233 points would be extremely challenging to manage, there's a significant allure in the pursuit of knowledge, especially in areas that captivate my interests.

The Implications of an Increased IQ

To illustrate, if one's current IQ is near the lowest recorded human IQ, around 35 to 40, a 100-point increase would elevate you to the gifted range. This transformation would place you far above the average, which is estimated at an IQ of 68 for around 85% of the population. In terms of statistical distribution, a 100-point increase would place your IQ at 118 to 122, which is significantly above average. However, considering that IQs above 160 are notoriously difficult to measure accurately, the exact impact of such an increase remains speculative.

The Distribution of Cognitive Abilities

Given that 85% of people fall within the average to above-average range, a 100-point increase would dramatically shift your cognitive abilities. For someone with an average IQ of 100, a 100-point increase would place them in the 185 to 215 range, which is equivalent to the top 25% of the global population. Such a drastic increase would undoubtedly draw a significant line between you and your peers as the majority of the population struggles to relate to such intellectual depth.

Interpreting the Increase

However, the interpretation of an increased IQ by 100 points can vary greatly depending on the individual. For someone with average intellectual fluidity who has faced challenges in academic performance, the added 100 points might seem like a dream come true. This increase could significantly boost their confidence and ability to learn at an accelerated pace, potentially leading to greater success and enjoyment in education.

On the other hand, for individuals with significantly higher IQs, such as those who are two standard deviations above the norm (typically IQ 127 or above), the concept of an additional 100 points might be met with skepticism. These individuals often possess a wealth of contextual knowledge and may be aware of the potential consequences and challenges associated with such an increase. For instance, while an IQ of 220 might be incredibly impressive, it could also come with its own set of social challenges and a heightened awareness of the world's complexities.

The Impact on Learning and Conversations

Regardless of your starting point, a 100-point increase in IQ generally leads to an exponential improvement in cognitive abilities. For example, if you start with an IQ of 120, an additional 100 points would bring you to 220, enabling you to learn at an extremely fast rate. Many high IQ individuals with an IQ of 200 can, indeed, hold conversations with those who are less intelligent, showcasing a broader range of knowledge and a deeper understanding of complex topics.

Moreover, the ability to process and comprehend information quickly and accurately would be significantly enhanced. This can lead to more productive conversations, faster learning, and a greater capacity for problem-solving. While the prospect of an increased IQ is exciting, it's essential to consider the potential challenges and the impact on interpersonal relationships and social dynamics.

Conclusion

The decision to take an increased IQ by 100 points is highly individual and depends on one's current intellectual capabilities, personal goals, and the potential social and cognitive challenges that may arise. For some, the increase could be a transformative and beneficial experience. For others, it may be met with caution and a nuanced understanding of the implications of such a dramatic change in cognitive abilities.