Consider raising IQ to do good

Abstract

Interventions that aim to raise IQ could have positive flow-through effects, including decreased violence, increased economic productivity, and improvements in decision-making and innovation. It is unclear whether it is more beneficial to prioritize raising IQ at the low or high end of the spectrum. Various interventions to increase IQ are considered, including social interventions, nutrient supplements, and in vitro fertilization. It is suggested that effective altruists should consider supporting research into IQ, particularly in areas such as identifying new biomedical influences on IQ and genetic interventions. Potential objections to this approach, such as the accuracy of childhood IQ tests and the possibility of creating individuals with high IQs who engage in harmful activities, are addressed. – AI-generated abstract.