A new theory could explain the 15-point IQ gap between black and white
Americans. In 1969, Arthur Jensen claimed it was all down to genes. James Flynn
demolished the genetic theory in 1987 when he showed that everyone’s IQ is
rising dramatically from generation to generation. So what’s going on?
Reciprocal causation, William Dickens suggested this year. If you start off with
a small advantage, you get into a better environment that amplifies your talent,
he argues. Someone who’s good at basketball will be encouraged to practise more,
will get into a better team, get better coaching and so on.
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