The truth about intelligence: A guide for the confused

Is intelligence something you are born with, or a skill that you can hone and develop throughout life? Is someone whose brain is packed with esoteric facts more intelligent than an artist who prompts people to see the world differently, or a mathematician who designs an algorithm that enables a computer to beat a human at chess? Is that computer more intelligent than the human? Intelligence is a slippery concept. Even psychology textbooks on the subject are riddled with myths and errors. Yet recent research means that we are finally getting to grips with some of the key questions about intelligence. We all have skin in this game – whether it be taking an IQ test for a job application, helping our children achieve their potential or simply doing the cryptic crossword. It is time to wise up.