How do you know that you are not a genius?

Question

Does it onlytake a high IQ to be a genius?

Answer 1

Everybody has an IQ (Intelligence Quotient) measured on a numerical scale. 100 is the average score and indicates average "intelligence." A score of 120 means you have above average intelligence, while a score of 140 or higher indicates that you have a "genius" IQ. An IQ above 140 is incredibly rare, which is why societies like MENSA exist for those who fall within the "genius" range. Even a score of 130 is rare with most people falling in the range near 100.

However, the word "genius" is subjective so the other answers given are not wrong. IQ is a measure of your ability to learn so as others have said, you can have a genius IQ and be a total idiot. Honestly, if you want to be smarter, work at it just like you would anything else. Take classes, read books, educate yourself.

Answer 2

A smart & successful friend of mine once told me that laziness is a sign of genius - a genius will find the easiest way to accomplish something. I told him this only works if the lazy person actually tries to accomplish something, and he pointed out that neither a lazy person nor a very smart person can be a genius if they do not accomplish something. Touche...

Answer 3

In short, no. High IQ is not a requirement of genius. Genius is a socially derived term referring to an individual who has a tremendous ability in one or more areas (polymath), and who has achieved to a level of significance for their society or humanity. Savant "Genius" - are people who have stunning abilities in one field but may in fact be otherwise "low IQ". If you are interested in this topic- PBS did a series of shows on the subject you can find in YouTube. You can also view the current neuroscience research in the field in YouTube. 

Answer 4

Hi MI, it would depend on how you define "genius," as well as the assessment or test that is used for measurement of one's "genius." In the area of assessing intellectual quotient (IQ), the test or assessment used must have been shown be reliable and valid, with standardized procedures, and normed on populations comparable to the individual who was tested. For example, due to linguistic differences, commonly-used tests of intellectual ability may not accurately reflect the verbal intelligence of individuals who are D/deaf or hard of hearing, and therefore should only be administered and interpreted by professionals well-versed in testing this population. Finally, there are many aspects involved in the cognitive system that comprises human "intelligence," from working memory to cognitive efficiency to executive functioning. People can have strengths in certain areas and weaknesses in others.

I hope this information is helpful to you. All the best!

Answer 5

According to a well respected scientist, genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.  If you're willing to work hard you can be a genius.

Answer 6

As others- specifically Holly and Carrie- have said, high IQ is not the only indication of being a genius. First, there are many ways to define "genius", and many different ways to be one. For example, a mathematician specializing in physics could be a genius when it comes to mathematics, but be utterly clueless if you make them a military commander, because mathematical genius does not necessarily translate to tactical genius. The mathematician could also be socially awkward and lack knowledge in the area of psychology, or botany or economics. Conversely, someone could be completely inept at math, but have a fantastic understanding of psychology and "street smarts", and is able to read emotional/body "cues" that few people pick up on. As a famous saying attributed to Einstein goes, "everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life thinking it is stupid".

Answer 7

My opinion is that if you asked the question in the fist place, you already show a great deal of intelligence.  Geniuses are usually those who refer to themselves as such.