People good at math = smart ones?

Seriously now.

The only intelligent people I know are the ones that are good in math. Every professor I had in my life, either in anything math-related or not, was (I eventually got to know) good in math.

So this brings me one old idea, that isn't as wrong as people thought. IQ tests really tell how intelligent someone is, it doesn't matter what other people say about the existence of other "intelligences", it's bullshit. The only intelligent conversations I ever had were with people with high IQ. So fuck the other ones.

Do you people agree?


PS: What do you guys think about this idea: an alien invasion that tests everyone's IQ and kills everyone below 120?

Well, first we should probably state what intelligence is.

1) Most importantly, it's ones ability to reason and problem solve.

2) Secondly, it's a persons ability to remember and learn.

Now there's many other things that make up intelligence, but these are the two biggies.  IQ tests are very good at testing these two things.  So yes, usually people who score high on IQ tests usually are pretty bright.

However, these two things, although import, make up maybe half of what I would call "intelligence".  Espescially if we're talking about conversation.  One of my best friends fails completely at math, but out of anyone I know he has the best head on his shoulders.

There are different types of intelligences.  IQ only measures a person's logical/mathematical, and perhaps spacial (some touch on linguistic, most don't).  All the other types are completely overlooked. 

Artistic - Creating beautiful art is something only humans can do.  And it's because we're intelligent.  The spacial awareness and creativity are not gauged by IQ

Bodily-kinesthetic - I know you nerds don't like to admit it but it takes brain power to do what athletes and highly coordinated people do.

INTRAPERSONAL - This is huge, and is not indicated by IQ in any way.  You have no idea how many math "geniuses" I've spoken to who were complete morons when it came to this and common sense.

The reason many people with high IQs are smart in all categories is because of the g-factor.  However there are exceptions to every rule.  For every "stupid" person I've met who was incredibly interesting to talk to, I've met a genius who was a complete douche bag.


TL;DR- There are many intelligences, and IQ tests fail.