Intelligence Quotient

What is the average IQ score of countries around the world in 2023

I. Definition of average IQ

The average IQ, or Intelligence Quotient, is a standardized measure of intelligence that is based on a comparison of an individual's performance on an IQ test to the performance of a representative sample of the population. The average IQ score is set at 100, with a standard deviation of 15 points.

Definition of average IQ

An IQ score of 100 is considered to be an average score, which means that the individual's performance on the test is comparable to the performance of the majority of the population. A score below 100 is considered to be below average, while a score above 100 is considered to be above average.

It's important to note that IQ scores are not a measure of an individual's worth or value as a person, but rather a measure of cognitive abilities that can be useful in certain contexts, such as education and employment. IQ scores are also not a comprehensive measure of intelligence, as they may not fully capture the breadth and diversity of human intellectual abilities.

IQ scores can vary depending on a variety of factors, including age, culture, and socio-economic status. As such, it's important to interpret IQ scores with caution and to consider the broader context in which they are obtained.

68% of all IQ values lie between 85 and 115 points, as shown in the above belling curve. There might be a "normal IQ-level" between this IQ average range in essence. However, scholars have sought to categorize the normal IQ score and the higher and lower intelligence levels using a more sophisticated method.

II. How do IQ scores differ around the world?

1. The average IQ score across all nations

Over the years various studies, like Lynn and Vanhanen (2002), Lynn and Meisenberg (2010) and Rinderman (2007), have attempted to determine the ranks of each country in terms of their IQ. In particular, Richard Lynn, the English psychologist, has sought to comprehend and to quantify the world's IQs.

In 2010 his study resulted in the ranking of 108 nations, according to the results of Richard Lynn and Meisenberg’s research, that certain individuals have structural difficulties with regard to sample size and particular portions of their populations. However, the results did receive some notoriety. The findings were well known with Hong Kong leading the top ranking nations with an average IQ of 108.

Country	Average IQ
Hong Kong	108
Singapore	108
South Korea	106
China	105
Japan	105
Taiwan	101
Iceland	101
Macau	101
Switzerland	100
Austria	100
Liechtenstein	100
Luxembourg	100
Netherlands	100
Norway	100
United Kingdom	100

These are the top ten countries, according to the same study:

Kenya (as well as Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania) (72)
Zimbabwe (72);
Botswana (71);
Ghana (71);
Zambia (71);
Nigeria (69);
Swaziland (68);
Lesotho (67);
Mozambique (64);
Malawi (60).

However, the research utilized for this data is controversial. This is because only certain population groupings or limited samples by nation have been taken into consideration.

Since then, several investigations have refuted the concept of lower average IQ among individuals in African countries by other researchers. They highlight the fact that the initial team sampled the populations in 2010, which was faulty.

2. Factors contributing the differences in IQ score across nations

IQ scores differ around the world due to a variety of factors, including cultural, socio-economic, and educational differences. For example, research has shown that IQ scores tend to be higher in countries with better education systems, higher levels of economic development, and lower levels of social inequality.

However, there are also cultural differences that can affect IQ scores. For example, some researchers have suggested that certain cultural values, such as collectivism versus individualism, may influence cognitive development and performance on IQ tests.

Another factor to consider is the potential for bias in IQ tests. Some tests may be more culturally specific or may contain language or cultural references that are unfamiliar to certain populations. This can result in lower scores for individuals who are not familiar with the cultural context of the test.

While there are differences in IQ scores around the world, it's important to interpret these scores with caution and to consider the broader social and cultural context in which they are obtained. It's also important to recognize that IQ scores are not a comprehensive measure of intelligence and should not be used as the sole basis for making decisions about individuals or groups.

III. Which country has the highest IQ score and why?

1. Countries have the highest IQ score

It's not accurate to definitively say which country has the highest IQ score as there are different IQ tests that are used in different countries, and the results can vary depending on the specific test, the sample population, and other factors.

Countries have the highest IQ score

Source: https://wisevoter.com/country-rankings/average-iq-by-country/

That being said, some studies have suggested that countries in East Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, tend to have higher average IQ scores compared to other regions of the world. This has been attributed to a variety of factors, including a strong emphasis on education and a cultural emphasis on academic achievement.

However, it's important to note that IQ scores should not be used to make assumptions about the intelligence or worth of individuals or groups, and should be interpreted with caution. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential for bias in IQ tests and the ways in which they have been historically used to justify discriminatory practices and policies.

2. Reasons why these countries tend to have higher average IQ scores

There are a number of factors that have been suggested as potential explanations for why countries in East Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, tend to have higher average IQ scores compared to other regions of the world. These include:

Education: There is a strong emphasis on education in East Asian cultures, and students often spend many hours a day studying and preparing for exams. This intense focus on education may contribute to higher IQ scores.
Parental involvement: Parents in East Asian countries tend to be highly involved in their children's education, providing extra support and resources to ensure academic success.
Cultural values: In some East Asian cultures, there is a strong cultural emphasis on academic achievement and intelligence. This may motivate individuals to strive for higher IQ scores.
Nutrition: Some researchers have suggested that improved nutrition in East Asian countries may contribute to higher IQ scores.

It's important to note, however, that there are limitations to using IQ scores as a measure of intelligence, and that there may be other factors at play that contribute to differences in IQ scores between different regions of the world. Additionally, IQ scores should not be used to make assumptions about an individual's worth or value as a person.

IV. Does the IQ scale range change over time?

1. Does the range of the IQ test change over time?

The IQ scale range does not change over time, as the scale is standardized and remains the same. The average IQ score is set at 100, with a standard deviation of 15 points. This means that approximately 68% of the population will have IQ scores that fall within one standard deviation of the mean (85-115), and about 95% of the population will have scores within two standard deviations of the mean (70-130).

While the IQ scale remains the same, the tests used to measure IQ have undergone revisions and updates over time to ensure they remain relevant and accurate. For example, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) has undergone four revisions since it was first developed in 1939, with the most recent revision released in 2020. These revisions are designed to address issues with test content, ensure the tests remain reliable and valid, and reflect changes in the cultural and social contexts in which they are used.

It's worth noting that while the IQ scale remains the same, the interpretation and use of IQ scores have evolved over time, and the use of IQ tests to make decisions about individuals is a subject of ongoing debate and controversy.

2. The reason why the IQ scale does not change over time

The IQ scale range does not change over time because it is based on a standard deviation scale that remains constant. The standard deviation scale is a statistical tool used to measure how spread out a set of data is from the average. In the case of IQ tests, the average score is set at 100, and the standard deviation is set at 15 points. This means that the range of scores that fall within one standard deviation of the mean will always be 85-115, and the range that falls within two standard deviations will always be 70-130.

The standard deviation scale provides a stable and consistent method of comparing IQ scores across different populations and time periods. This is important because it allows researchers and clinicians to interpret IQ scores in a meaningful way and to make valid comparisons between individuals and groups.

While IQ tests have undergone revisions and updates over time, the standardized nature of the IQ scale ensures that scores can be compared across different versions of the test. This allows for longitudinal studies that examine changes in IQ scores over time, while still maintaining the consistency and stability of the IQ scale range.

Overall, the IQ scale range remains constant because it is based on a statistical tool that provides a reliable and standardized method of comparing IQ scores over time and across populations.

V. How is IQ measured?

IQ is typically measured using standardized tests, which are designed to assess an individual's cognitive abilities in various areas, such as verbal reasoning, spatial reasoning, and memory. These tests usually consist of a series of tasks or questions that are timed and presented in a standardized manner to ensure consistency and fairness across test-takers.

IQ tests are based on the idea that intelligence is a stable and measurable trait that can be quantified through standardized testing. However, IQ tests have been criticized for their potential biases and limitations in capturing the full complexity and diversity of human intelligence. As a result, alternative methods of measuring intelligence are being explored, such as multiple intelligence theory and emotional intelligence.

The IQ test was conducted in the late 1800s. In the first intelligence test, a person reacted to stimuli as rapidly as possible. However, this approach was generally discontinued when the speed check was not properly predicting the intellect of a person.

The work of psychologist Henry Herbert Goddard is a modern IQ test in virtually all parts of the world. The French psychologist Alfred Binet assisted Goddard to translate the English intelligence test.

Binet utilized this test for the evaluation of fundamental intellectual skills in school students and the diagnosis of mental health. Since then, IQ tests have changed significantly. More than a dozen different IQ tests have been utilized nowadays.

Some of the most common IQ tests are:

Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V)
Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adults (WAIS)
Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale
Differential Ability Scales (DAS)
Peabody Individual Achievement Test

The tests are conducted by authorized psychologists. They generally consist of many components. For example, 15 subtests may be found in the Wechsler Intelligence Scale.

The diverse aspects of IQ such as math, language, reasoning, memory and data processing are measured in every subtest. Using one of the following approaches, you can compute an IQ once the findings have been collected. The first technique is to divide the age or the IQ by the chronological age of a person and then multiply by 100. The findings will then be integrated into an IQ. The values are modified according to age as well.

The other procedure comprises a comparison process in which the IQ score of a person is compared with the score of others of the same age. The standardization procedure is used to accomplish this technique.

By analyzing the results for the test taken by a representative sample, standardization is accomplished. Psychometrists can utilize the results to set standards that can be compiled in all individual scores by taking the scores of participants in this sample.

Does this mean we have become smarter than our ancestors? Look, probably not. If we are to think logically, it is most likely due to an increase in formal education, improved nutrition, better exercise habits and an increase in vaccinations.

Reference test:

- Alpha High IQ Society: https://www.iq-test.net/free-iq-test.html

- Vietnam High IQ Society: https://testiq.vn/kiem-tra-iq.html

VI. Why is the IQ test controversial?

Since intelligence tests were created, Average IQ has been contentious.

Some individuals mistakenly assume, because of their genes and are thus less, that people of particular races, gender and origins possess lower IQs. This knowledge was exploited to promote racial ideologies and eugenics worldwide.

While there have been reports of a number of specific genes related with IQ, neither gene has a substantial impact. There was no evidence likewise discovered by the American Psychological Association to support genetic explanations for IQ variations across races.

In addition, studies could not detect a difference in the average IQ rates of men and women

We should also bear in mind that Western Europeans established the concept of IQ and IQ tests in accordance with their own cultural norms. Whether IQ can assess intellect effectively in persons with totally diverse social structures, cultures, convictions and ways of thinking remains uncertain.

In addition, It is obvious that environmental variables have a major impact on the average IQ. Factors that have been positively linked to higher IQ include:

Good nutrition;
Regular schooling of good quality;
Legislation requiring the enforcement of specific food items;
Rules on safe contaminants;
Laws establishing safe levels of pollutants, like lead;
Musical training in childhood;
Higher socio-economic status;
Infectious illness incidence.

The only truly relevant predictor of the average IQ could be discovered to be infectious diseases. Researchers think that since when a kid is unwell, the body uses its energy instead of using it for brain growth to fight the infection.

One study revealed that in malarious persons (an infectious illness carried by mosquitoes) cognitive skills and academic performance were affected in comparison to healthy individuals. This energy is therefore taken away from the energy that would instead be used for brain development.

A US study revealed that states with an increased prevalence of contagious illnesses and lower IQ are in significant interrelation.

Perhaps what it really means to the person and the wider community in which it works is the most palpable disagreement about the idea of IQ. There is no link between IQ and lifelong success.

Although IQ may be an essential indication for simplified procedures, it is difficult to measure a human being's total intelligence with a test or a rating since common sense or holistic intelligent understanding are not taken into consideration. People are far more complicated than this and this exam and the number you get is certainly not the only way you can evaluate intellect.

The IQ test is controversial due to several reasons, including its validity and reliability in measuring intelligence, potential biases in the test, cultural and socio-economic factors that can influence test performance, and ethical concerns related to labeling individuals based on a single score. Additionally, the test has a history of being used to justify discriminatory practices and policies, which has led to skepticism and criticism from various groups.

The controversy surrounding IQ tests arises from concerns about their validity and reliability in measuring intelligence. Critics argue that the tests are biased, both in their content and in their administration, and that they do not accurately capture the complexity and diversity of human intelligence. For example, IQ tests may be culturally biased towards certain groups, and socio-economic factors such as access to education and nutrition can influence performance on the test. Moreover, IQ tests are often criticized for oversimplifying the concept of intelligence, which is a multifaceted and complex phenomenon that cannot be reduced to a single score. The use of IQ tests to make important decisions, such as admission to schools or employment, has also been questioned, as it may perpetuate discrimination and reinforce stereotypes. Therefore, the validity and reliability of IQ tests continue to be debated, and alternative methods of measuring intelligence are being explored to provide a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of human cognition.

Potential biases in IQ tests are a major source of controversy surrounding their use. Critics argue that the tests may be culturally and socially biased, as they may be constructed in ways that favor certain groups over others. For example, IQ tests may use language, symbols, or concepts that are more familiar to individuals from certain cultural or socio-economic backgrounds, which could lead to lower scores for individuals from other groups. Moreover, IQ tests may be administered in ways that are discriminatory, such as using biased or insensitive language, or failing to account for individual differences or special needs. Additionally, IQ tests may be susceptible to examiner biases, such as unintentional biases or expectations that could influence test scores. These potential biases raise concerns about the fairness and validity of IQ tests, particularly when they are used to make important decisions that affect individuals' lives, such as admission to schools, selection for employment or promotions, or allocation of resources. As a result, efforts are being made to develop more culturally and socially sensitive IQ tests, and alternative methods of measuring intelligence are also being explored to reduce the impact of potential biases.

Cultural and socio-economic factors play a significant role in the controversy surrounding IQ tests. Critics argue that IQ tests are culturally biased and fail to take into account the diversity of human experiences and backgrounds. For example, IQ tests may use language, symbols, or concepts that are more familiar to individuals from certain cultural or socio-economic backgrounds, which could lead to lower scores for individuals from other groups. Additionally, access to education, nutrition, and other resources can significantly impact an individual's performance on IQ tests. Individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds may have less access to resources that promote cognitive development, such as quality education or adequate nutrition, which could result in lower IQ scores. Furthermore, socio-economic factors such as poverty, discrimination, and inequality can lead to chronic stress and negative life experiences that may impact an individual's cognitive abilities. As a result, the use of IQ tests to make decisions about individuals from different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds has been criticized as being unfair and discriminatory. Efforts are being made to develop more culturally and socially sensitive IQ tests, and alternative methods of measuring intelligence that take into account the diversity of human experiences and backgrounds.

Ethical concerns related to labeling individuals based on a single score is another factor contributing to the controversy surrounding IQ tests. Critics argue that using a single score to label individuals as "smart" or "dumb" is overly simplistic and ignores the complexity and diversity of human intelligence. Moreover, labeling individuals based on a single score can have negative consequences, such as stigmatization, discrimination, and limited opportunities. Individuals who receive low scores on IQ tests may be unfairly labeled as unintelligent, which could lead to social, economic, and educational disadvantages. Additionally, labeling individuals based on a single score may perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce biases. As a result, the use of IQ tests to make important decisions about individuals, such as admission to schools or employment, has been criticized as being unfair and unethical.

The history of using IQ tests to justify discriminatory practices and policies has contributed to the controversy surrounding them. In the past, IQ tests were used to promote eugenic policies that aimed to selectively breed humans for desirable traits and limit the reproduction of those deemed undesirable. Moreover, IQ tests have been used to justify discriminatory practices, such as segregation and exclusion, based on the idea that certain groups were inherently inferior to others. The use of IQ tests in this way has perpetuated harmful stereotypes and reinforced biases that have had negative impacts on individuals and communities. As a result, IQ tests have been criticized by various groups, including civil rights activists, for being unfair and discriminatory. Efforts are being made to address the historical legacy of IQ tests and to develop more socially and culturally sensitive measures of intelligence that promote fairness, equality, and inclusion.

Therefore IQ is not the sole measure of intellect, it is vital to remember. Nations may also be classified according to the ranks of the school tests or the number of prizes received throughout the years. Singapore, for example, boasts the highest IQ but is not regarded as the most intelligent nation in the world. This title goes to Japan, where the number of former Nobel Prizes was granted and the highest rating of school tests is.