How a Higher IQ Score Predicted a Longer Life

Intelligence is neither static nor entirely measurable, but is learnable and improvable

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“Intelligence is not fixed, and it can be fostered with the right strategies. Anyone can get smarter — and live longer.” (Anne-Laure Le Cunff, nesslabs.com)

Intelligence is a multi-faceted attribute. There’re different types of intelligence like numerical intelligence, linguistic intelligence, kinaesthetic intelligence, musical intelligence, spatial intelligence, interpersonal intelligence, etc.

There are also broad categories like fluid intelligence and crystallised intelligence.

IQ tests raise the hackles of many people. They say it’s unfair to label people on the basis of their test scores.

It’s impossible to measure multi-faceted intelligence in its entirety, much less through a single standardised test.

The IQ test score is a limited snapshot of certain aspects of intelligence, like numerical ability, abstract reasoning, and linguistic intelligence.

IQ test scores predict better life outcomes because the traits they measure matter in achieving educational qualifications and securing good-paying jobs to lead a comfortable life.

The IQ tests predict success in the conventional sense. It does not predict a good life, but a materially comfortable life. It does not predict good character or emotional intelligence. Smartness also does not shield anyone against stupidity because even intelligent people make terrible decisions.

The link between IQ and longevity

A Swedish study examined the IQ test scores of a million men in military service when they were eighteen years old. The researchers followed up on the subjects 20 years after they took the test. They found a strong correlation between higher test scores and longevity.There were more deaths in the lower-IQ cohort than in the intelligent group.

Correlation is not causation. According to the researchers, intelligent people may have longer life spans because of the following reasons:

1. They had better jobs and a better quality of life.
2. They took care of their health by avoiding excessive smoking and alcoholic consumption. They generally avoided risky behaviour.
3. Adverse childhood experiences like poverty affected brain development and predicted lower intelligence.
4. Genetic lottery also shaped intelligence. Those with general good health also had healthy brains.

Intelligence is improvable

Except in cases of severe brain impairment or serious genetic disorders, people can improve their intelligence by tapping into brain plasticity.

People can improve their intelligence by meditating, learning to play musical instruments, learning new languages, and getting good sleep.

Intelligence can also be improved by travelling to new places, taking up novel and creative pursuits, doing vigorous physical exercise, and engaging in playful activities.

What the Swedish study established was that intelligence indirectly contributed to longevity, as smarter people enjoyed a good quality of life and adopted healthy lifestyles.

The IQ test only offers a snapshot of intelligence at a particular time. Intelligence is malleable, and we can improve our IQ through well-informed choices, behaviours, and practices.

Intelligence is everyone’s birthright, not the exclusive preserve of a few fortunate people.

Thanks for reading!