Human Intelligence: Raising Intelligence Level

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One of the most common definitions of intelligence is one’s ability to learn, and apply their knowledge (Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences). Humans use their brains and intelligence every day, and the human ability to think and create is what allows us to be the dominant species on Earth. However, there has always been a gap of intelligence levels within our species. There are geniuses, and they can solve complex math equations without hesitation. On the other hand, we have a great percentage of people who have learning disabilities, like mental retardation. Scientists have found that there are many factors that influence an individual's intelligence, both positively, and negatively. Many links have been made between intelligence and genetics and biology, but, many scientists also have found the environment in which someone has been raised in also plays a significant role in intelligence. In the 21st century, what causes high or low intelligence still hasn't been completely determined, and scientists and researchers are debating many theories and ideas.

Your DNA consists of hundreds and thousands of gene sequences that make you, you. Your parents contributed to your genetic makeup, therefore half your genes are from your mom, and the other half your dad. Many scientists and researchers have determined that about 50% of intelligence is heritable (Causes of Intelligence). The genes you inherited from your parents give directions on how you are built. Thus, brain structure can differ depending on one's genes.

Your genes determine how your nerves are encased in myelin. Myelin is a fatty insulation in the brain used to transmit nerve signals (More Evidence that Intelligence). The thicker the myelin, the faster your brain funct...

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...Genes, but Where? Association for Psychological Science, 2 Oct. 2012. Web. 21 May 2014. .
Mental Retardation. Advameg, 2014. Web. 21 May 2014. .
More Evidence That Intelligence Is Largely Inherited: Researchers Find That Genes Determine Brain’s Processing Speed. Science Daily, 18 Mar. 2009. Web. 14 May 2014. .
Scientists ‘locate’ intelligence. BBC News, n.d. Web. 14 May 2014. .
The 3% Solution. The Economist Newspaper, 10 May 2014. Web. 21 May 2014. .

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