The Connection Between Intelligence and Empathy

Each time I watch the news, browse social media, or peruse comments on my Medium articles, I find myself amazed by the extent of human hostility.

Is it really so challenging to show empathy? To mentally step into the experiences of those who differ from us? To recognize that, fundamentally, we are all individuals seeking acceptance, safety, and joy?

Science suggests that, indeed, it can be challenging—particularly for individuals with lower IQs. Research indicates that those with diminished cognitive capabilities tend to harbor more prejudice against various groups based on race, gender, sexuality, and belief systems.

In simpler terms, those who express hatred often lack depth in understanding. But what accounts for this?

Individuals with lower intelligence often default to binary thinking—viewing the world in terms of "good" and "bad." Consequently, they struggle to comprehend more intricate concepts like privilege, intersectionality, and systemic inequality.

Furthermore, exposure to hate speech can impair the neurocognitive functions tied to empathy, leading to a vicious cycle. Individuals with lower cognitive abilities may gravitate toward hateful rhetoric, which in turn diminishes their intelligence even further.

If you feel that sensationalist media is dumbing down society, you're likely onto something. However, it's important to note that individuals with higher intelligence can also stereotype.

Section 1.1 The Nature of Stereotyping

All humans categorize information, but those with higher cognitive skills are generally better equipped to dismantle stereotypes when confronted with new data.

Interestingly, individuals with elevated IQs are more inclined to feel prejudice against historically dominant groups that infringe upon the rights of others—be it oppressive ideologies, exploitative corporations, or discriminatory social systems.

Subsection 1.1.1 The Distinction Between Forms of Prejudice

The difference in these two types of prejudice—hateful versus empathetic—lies in brain wiring.

Humans have evolved to exist in small tribes composed of similar individuals, making a degree of prejudice somewhat innate. This trait once served as a survival mechanism.

However, hate necessitates a primal, animalistic dehumanization of others. When individuals exhibit ignorance, racism, or intolerance, they are often driven by a less evolved part of the brain, responsible for basic instincts and territoriality. This makes them self-centered, reactive, and less civilized.

Empathy, on the other hand, demands a more sophisticated cognitive approach. Studies reveal that individuals with higher intelligence are more attuned to emotional signals from others.

The right supramarginal gyrus, a part of the brain that developed much later in human evolution, plays a key role in empathy. Those who can move beyond their fears to connect with others—regardless of differences—are demonstrating their ability to engage these more advanced brain functions.

Chapter 2 The Implications of Empathy

The first video titled "Richard Haier: IQ Tests, Human Intelligence, and Group Differences | Lex Fridman Podcast #302" delves into how intelligence is assessed and its implications on social attitudes.

The second video, "I Took an IQ Test to Find Out What it Actually Measures," provides personal insights into the meaning of IQ tests and their relevance to understanding intelligence.

So, when you find yourself exasperated by someone's narrow-minded beliefs, remember that their viewpoint may be a reflection of limited cognitive capacity. Your ability to empathize with their ignorance underscores your own intellect.

For more about my journey, check out my memoir at www.mariacassano.com/numb.