I assert: For the vast majority of people (95%) genetics plays little or
no role in memetic development.
Since the simplest conclusion one can draw is that two phenomena are not
related I will require some hard evidence including but not limited to a
sufficiently detailed mechanism based on observed experimental data to
convince me that the two systems are coupled in human development.
Not that they can't be in other systems, or that it's imposible the two
have some bearing on one another.
It is my opinion that the "determinism-meme" propogates in spite of
contradictory evidence because it assauges the guilt of those of use lucky
enough to have developed in a rich memetic environment when we observe
those who are not so lucky.
It is very possible that there are narrow windows within childhood
development in which we have the capacity to aquire language, priciples of
mathematics, abstract spatial thinking and other memes ascribed to the
"intelligent". Since many concepts and abilities build and extend from
those already in place missing one of these windows may handicap an
individuals development for life. Should such neglect link (as it might)
with socio-economic situation one might erroneously conclude that there was
some genetically determining factor.
Wake up. If you are well fed, clothed, loved, educated and attendend to as
a child then you will be more intelligent as a result, presuming you are
not handicapped by significant menal defects. Childeren are resillient,
and all of us have developed in less than ideal circumstances. We are
testaments to the ability of the developing mind to overcome violence and
deprivation of many sorts. The intitial stages of mental and physical
development (say 0 to 8) are more consistent determiners of "intelligence"
than any hackneyed genetic argument.
Reed
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Reed Konsler konsler@ascat.harvard.edu
---------------------------------------------------------------------