Analysis Paper: What is the effect of intelligence?

Write a double-spaced, five-paragraph essay answering one question. Write the thesis statement with three points at the end of the introduction. Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence, and support each topic sentence with explanations and specific factual details. End with a paraphrase of your main idea, and add a concluding thought.

1. Do smart choices make for better health?

"The Key to Longer Living: Being Smart," The Manitoban, 2009.
   Many studies have linked IQ with health and longevity. Now, Canadian researchers have found evidence that healthy older adults who score higher on a test utilizing the executive functions of the brain live longer. IQ may match the overall health of the body. It facilitates entry into white-collar jobs that present fewer physical risks. Mostly, however, it facilitates better understanding of health risks, causing smarter people to engage in healthier lifestyles, including diet and exercise.

2. Do smarter people tend to get into better careers?

"Straight Talk about Mental Tests," Dr. Arthur Jensen. McMillan, 1981.
   Dr. Jensen says that the lowest 5% score below 75 IQ, drop out of school, and are underemployed. The 25% below 90 IQ also often dropout and work in routine jobs. The 50% of average intelligence (90-110) typically finish high school and labor in manufacturing, clerical, and sales. The upper 25%, above 110 IQ, often graduate college and work as managers, teachers, and accountants. The top 5% are above 125 IQ and may become lawyers, executives, and professors.

3. Is there a connection between IQ and the economy?

"IQ and the Wealth of Nations." Richard Lynn and Tatu Vanhanen, 2002.

  According to Lynn and Vanhanen, hundreds of tests show that the more intelligent nations are also the richer ones. First, the average IQ or intelligence score in North Asia is 104 where the average annual income is $20,000. European whites average 100 IQ and typically earn $20,000 per year. South Americans, South Asians, and Middle Easterners average 87 IQ and usually make $5,000 annually. Lastly, the average IQ in Africa is 69 where median annual income is just $2,000.