Product Description

People value their powers of thinking and most of us are interested in why some people seem to drive a highly tuned Rolls Royce brain while others potter along with a merely serviceable Ford Fiesta. This Very Short Introduction describes what psychologists have discovered about how and why people differ in their thinking powers. The book takes readers from no knowledge about the science of human intelligence to a stage where they are able to make judgements for themselves about some of the key questions about human mental ability differences. Each chapter deals with a central issue that is both scientifically lively and of considerable general interest, and is structured around a diagram which is explained in the course of the chapter. The issues discussed include whether there are several different types of intelligence, whether intelligence differences are caused by genes or the environment, the biological basis of intelligence differences, and whether intelligence declines or increases as we grow older.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #24676 in Books
• Published on: 2001-02-22
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 152 pages

About the Author
Ian Deary is Professor of Psychology at Edinburgh University, and author of Personality Traits (1998, with Gerald Matthews). His next book, Looking Down on Human Intelligence, will be published this year by OUP.

Customer Reviews

Great starting point
The book is very clear - great diagrams and text that simplifies the main arguements. The references suggested are also comprehensive, as a quick book for revision for whatever level, it's useful. It doesn't pretend to be a degree level text but as a first book to read on the subject, I haven't found any better introductions.

A perfect example of the "Very Short Introduction" series
I read this book as an interested layperson. It addresses a number of specific and fascinating questions about intelligence, including how many different types of intelligence there are; whether our intelligence changes as we get older; the nature versus nurture debate; and the mystery of rising IQ levels. It also gives a comprehensive reading list if you want to find out more. I found it extremely clear and eminently readable. Although I have a scientific background, I wouldn't say that it was necessary in order to understand the concepts discussed. Highly recommended!

Excellent Introduction
This is an excellent introduction to the psychological study of human intelligence. A number of important areas are desribed with clarity - psychometric models of intelligence, influence of genes and family environments, ageing, and the Flynn effect to name a few. Key studies are used to provide the reader with a sense of the evidence that supports current conceptions of different aspects of intelligence. Useful recommendations are also made for further reading. For a brief user friendly introduction to intelligence that leaves the reader ready to explore this subject further this book is highly recommended.