In the Know: Debunking 35 Myths about Human Intelligence

From the Author
In the Know: Debunking 35 Myths About Human Intelligence is aimed at anyone who is not a psychologist specializing in human intelligence. Students, non-psychologists, K-12 teachers, interested laymen, and scientists from outside of the field can gain from reading this book. I have tried to make the book as nontechnical as possible. My goal is not to make readers into experts, but rather to give them the tools to recognize common incorrect arguments and beliefs about intelligence.I wrote this book as an attempt to correct the mismatch between what experts believe about intelligence and what the public often hears. Having studied the topic for over 10 years, it is apparent to me that intelligence is underappreciated and neglected both among psychologists and laypeople. Misunderstandings and inaccuracies--sometimes propagated with the best of intentions--have inhibited scientific and social progress. These erroneous beliefs are so common that when I compiled a list, I found that there were enough to fill a book. This is that book.
Emotional intelligence is an important trait for success at work. IQ tests are biased against minorities. Every child is gifted. Preschool makes children smarter. Western understandings of intelligence are inappropriate for other cultures. These are some of the statements about intelligence that are common in the media and in popular culture. But none of them are true. In the Know is a tour of the most common incorrect beliefs about intelligence and IQ. Written in a fantastically engaging way, each chapter is dedicated to correcting a misconception and explains the real science behind intelligence. Controversies related to IQ will wither away in the face of the facts, leaving readers with a clear understanding about the truth of intelligence.