The “Flynn effect” refers to a pattern observed by James Flynn, a professor at the University of Otago in New Zealand. It points out that for most of the 20th century, scores on IQ tests have been rising. The reasons behind this pattern have been a subject of controversy. For example, are the rising IQ scores a result of some factor like improved nutrition, both prenatally and for young children? Are they a result of improved schooling? Or a job environment that puts greater emphasis on cognitive skills? Is there something about the design of IQ tests, perhaps combined with that has made scores go up even if underlying intelligence hasn’t moved?
More here – Conversable Economist
PS: So it’s not just me that has noticed that people are getting thicker
Totally agree with you. Not only getting thicker in the head also in the body. Poor nutrition one possible cause, genetic degradation due to our near ceasing of natural selection?
Reversion to the mean. Helped along by the massive amount of completely useless information that swirls around you these days.
Dozens of free to air TV stations that broadcast crap, Netflix, social media, peer reinforced political correctness etc, etc.
I contend that the Flynn Effect does not reflect any biological increase in g (general intelligence). Rather it is due to environment improving cognitive test score performance over time. Our culture in recent decades is more technologically based requiring considerably more cause and effect deductions compared to say 100 years ago. This results in progressively higher test scores over the decades. Genetic general intelligence is fixed at birth, but none of us ever realise the full potential of our innate intelligence. Individuals who grow up in a favourable environment (e.g. stable family home with intellectual stimulation and opportunity), make the most of their general intelligence. With repeated training and effort, intelligence test scores have shown to moderately improve until they reach an asymptotic ceiling.