The problem with your logic, Mq, is that mental horsepower is not all that matters. Motivation, drive, curiosity, a competitive nature, temperament, etc., must be a part of the mix for without them, it is unlikely that any worthwhile achievements will take place.
I am sure that you, like me, know men and women who were blessed with huge intellects, who left you dazzled with their insight and ability, who got top grades without trying very hard, but did not amount to much over the years because of other failings. My collegiate friends were for the most part hugely brilliant, but very few of them ever put their potential, which was awesome to behold, to full use. And most of them in this group are terribly unhappy at this middle stage of their lives because they know that they have somehow misused a gift. Problems with drugs and alcohol are common.
Are we better off with a wall-to-wall carpet of folks like the Unabomber, who are brilliant but misguided and potentially dangerous? |
