Intelligence and How to Get It

Nicholas Kristof’s column in today’s NYT discusses Richard Nisbett’s new book “Intelligence and How to Get It”.   The fundamental conclusion seems to be that nurture is more important than nature in human intelligence.  Intelligence as a process rather than a fixed inborn trait.

“In the mosaic of America, three groups that have been unusually successful are Asian-Americans, Jews and West Indian blacks….    These three groups may help debunk the myth of success as a simple product of intrinsic intellect, for they represent three different races and histories. In the debate over nature and nurture, they suggest the importance of improved nurture — which, from a public policy perspective, means a focus on education.”

More evidence, if any were needed, that the path to a solution to poverty and inequality in America goes through the schoolhouse door.