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Intelligence Trait and Genetics

Duke Do

Department of Applied Psychophysiology, Saybrook University

APH5111 Genetic Foundations of Behavior

June 18, 2023

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The relationship between intelligence and genetics is a topic of interest for much research

and study. It is a well-known fact that genetics plays a significant role in defining a person's

intelligence. However, environmental factors, such as education and upbringing, must also have

a significant impact. Understanding the interplay between them can provide valuable insights

into developing and enhancing cognitive abilities.

Nature vs Nurture on Intelligence

Intelligence is a complex trait influenced by a combination of nature and nurture factors.

Genetics play an important role in determining certain aspect of intelligence, it is critical to

acknowledge that genes do not solely determine intelligence. The relationship between

intelligence traits and genetics is valuable for further investigation.

First and foremost is a genetic influence. In Bueno's (2019) paper, he indicated that the

construction of the brain and its neurons functioning rely on genetics, so genes must at least

significantly influence the cognitive functions involved in intelligence. Other studies have shown

that genetics contributes to individual differences in intelligence. Classical twin studies have

found a higher correlation of intelligence scores between identical twins than fraternal twins

(Boomsma et al., 2002). This indicates a genetic component to intelligence.

In addition, heritability estimates attempt to quantify the proportion of variation in

intelligence that can be attributed to genetic factors. Plomin & von Stumm (2018) stated: "Recent

genome-wide association studies have successfully identified inherited genome sequence

differences that account for 20% of the 50% heritability of intelligence." Different studies have

reported varying estimates, but most suggest that genetic factors account for approximately 50-

80% of the variability in intelligence among individuals. This means that genetic factors play a

significant role, but environmental factors also contribute.

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Intelligence is considered a polygenic trait because it is influenced by multiple genes

rather than being determined by a single gene. Savage et al. (2018) identified 206 genomic loci

and implicated 1,041 genes, adding 191 novel loci and 963 novel genes previously associated

with cognitive ability. Goriounova & Mansvelder (2019) also mentioned several candidate genes

that may be associated with intelligence, but the specific genes involved, and their personal

effects still need to be fully understood.

The influence of genetics on intelligence must interact with environmental factors, such

as nutrition, education, socioeconomic status, and stimulating environments that can impact

intelligence development and expression. Genetic factors also interact with the environment,

influencing how individuals respond to and benefit from their surroundings. Genetic

predispositions can influence an individual's responsiveness to environmental inputs. For

example, a genetically inclined individual may have a more significant potential for intelligence,

but that potential may be enhanced or hindered depending on the quality of their environment.

Theories of Intelligence

Intelligence is the most controversial topic in psychology, and it is not surprising that

different researchers and scholars propose several theories of intelligence (Deary et al., 2009).

The following are some prominent theories of intelligence that can be categorized into groups.

Psychometric Theories: (1) Spearman's Two-Factor Theory proposed by Charles

Spearman, this theory suggests that intelligence consists of a general factor (g-factor) that

underlies all cognitive abilities, along with specific factors (s-factors) that are unique to

particular tasks. (2) Thurstone's Multiple-Factor Theory developed by Louis Thurstone, this

theory proposes that intelligence is composed of several distinct primary mental abilities, such as
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verbal comprehension, numerical ability, spatial relations, perceptual speed, word fluency,

memory, and inductive reasoning.

Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) Theory developed by Raymond Cattell, John Horn, and John

Carroll, this theory expands on the psychometric approach and emphasizes the hierarchical

nature of intelligence. It suggests that intelligence is organized into three levels: general

intelligence (g), broad cognitive abilities, and narrow specific cognitive abilities.

Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory proposed by Howard Gardner, this theory

suggests that intelligence is not a single entity but consists of multiple independent intelligence.

His new interdisciplinary view involves eight intelligences: linguistic, logical-mathematical,

musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic. He later added

existential and pedagogical intelligence and proposed the existence of other potential intelligence

as well.

Sternberg's Triarchic Theory developed by Robert Sternberg, this theory suggests that

intelligence can be divided into three main components: analytical intelligence (problem-solving

and logical reasoning), creative intelligence (ability to generate novel ideas and solutions), and

practical intelligence (ability to adapt and succeed in real-world situations). Sternberg later

expanded this theory to include a broader range of intelligence.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) Theory popularized by Daniel Goleman, the theory of

emotional intelligence focuses on the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one's

emotions and the emotions of others. It emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and

regulation in personal and social functioning.

In summary, these are just a few examples of the theories of intelligence. Each theory

offers a different perspective on intelligence and how it can be measured or understood. It is

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important to note that intelligence is a complex and multifaceted concept, and no single theory

can fully capture its entirety. Intelligence is a complex trait influenced by multiple factors, and

genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Genetics and the environment are essential in shaping an

individual's intelligence, and it is challenging to disentangle their respective contributions fully.

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References
Deary, I. J., Johnson, W., & Houlihan, L. M. (2009). Genetic foundations of human
intelligence. Human genetics, 126(1), 215–232. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00439-009-
0655-4

Boomsma, D., Busjahn, A., & Peltonen, L. (2002). Classical twin studies and beyond. Nature
reviews. Genetics, 3(11), 872–882. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrg932

Bueno D. (2019). Genetics and Learning: How the Genes Influence Educational
Attainment. Frontiers in psychology, 10, 1622. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01622

Goriounova, N. A., & Mansvelder, H. D. (2019). Genes, Cells and Brain Areas of
Intelligence. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 13, 44.
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2019.00044

Plomin, R., & von Stumm, S. (2018). The new genetics of intelligence. Nature reviews.
Genetics, 19(3), 148–159. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrg.2017.104

Savage, J. E., Jansen, P. R., Stringer, S., Watanabe, K., Bryois, J., de Leeuw, C. A., Nagel, M.,
Awasthi, S., Barr, P. B., Coleman, J. R. I., Grasby, K. L., Hammerschlag, A. R.,
Kaminski, J. A., Karlsson, R., Krapohl, E., Lam, M., Nygaard, M., Reynolds, C. A.,
Trampush, J. W., Young, H., … Posthuma, D. (2018). Genome-wide association meta-
analysis in 269,867 individuals identifies new genetic and functional links to
intelligence. Nature genetics, 50(7), 912–919. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-018-0152-6