More or Less: Behind the Stats - What is an IQ map and can we trust them?

Download What is an IQ map and can we trust them?

You may have seen a map circulated on social media that claims to show the average IQ of different nations.

If you look closely these numbers vary dramatically, with incredibly low scores in developing countries, including many in Africa.

Unsurprisingly the map is often used as a way to bolster arguments about racial or national superiority.

However, when you look at the data behind the claims the whole thing falls apart. We dive into the methods behind the map and ask whether it’s even possible to accurately put a number on intelligence.

Presenter: Charlotte McDonald
Producer: Lizzy McNeill
Series Producer: Tom Colls
Editor: Richard Vadon
Studio Manager: James Beard
Production Co-Ordinator: Brenda Brown

Published on Saturday, 15th March 2025.

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