No genes for intelligence in the fluid genome

Adv Child Dev Behav. 2013:45:67-92. doi: 10.1016/b978-0-12-397946-9.00004-x.

Abstract

Revolution is brewing belatedly within the heartlands of the genetic determinist establishment still in denial about the fluid genome that makes identifying genes even for common disease well-nigh impossible. The fruitless hunt for intelligence genes serves to expose the poverty of an obsolete paradigm that is obstructing knowledge and preventing fruitful policies from being widely implemented. Genome-wide scans using state-of-the art technologies on extensive databases have failed to find a single gene for intelligence; instead, environment and maternal effects may account for most, if not all correlation among relatives, while identical twins diverge genetically and epigenetically throughout life. Abundant evidence points to the enormous potential for improving intellectual abilities (and health) through simple environmental and social interventions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epigenomics / standards*
  • Gene-Environment Interaction*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics*
  • Genome / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Intelligence / genetics*
  • Intelligence / physiology
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Neurogenesis / genetics*
  • Neurogenesis / physiology
  • Twin Studies as Topic*