This paper summarizes empirical findings of research on a theory of general mental ability, based on laboratory studies of the relationship between measurements of individual differences on conventional psychometric tests and in speed and efficiency of information processes. The paper covers characteristics of "g" (general mental ability),…

Notes that preschool compensatory education has not resulted in any appreciable, durable gains in I.Q. or scholastic achievement. Posits that compensatory programs remedied deficiencies in knowledge but not in cognitive processes. Suggests further research into the nature of intelligence and its malleability. (PGD)

Charles Spearman originally suggested in 1927 that the varying magnitudes of the mean differences between whites and blacks in standardized scores on a variety of mental tests are directly related to the size of the tests' loadings on g, the general factor common to all complex tests of mental ability. Several independent large-scale studies…

Asian-American, White, and Black Children in grades 2-6 were tested for intelligence, achievement, and short-term memory. Factor analysis yielded two main factors: memory and general intelligence. The three groups differed distinctly at every grade level. Achievement correlated more with memory than with general intelligence. (Author/CP)

In this address, Jensen discusses his views on the effects of heredity and environment on human intelligence, in an attempt to clarify his original statements on this subject. Since his article appeared in the "Harvard Educational Review" in 1969, the term "Jensenism" has accrued a variety of meanings through popular usage (according to Jensen)…

This book is organized in nine parts, as follows. Part I, "Preface," includes an account of how the author went from the rather esoteric research on theoretical problems in serial rote learning to research on the inheritance of mental abilities and its implications for education. Part II, "How Much Can We Boost IQ and Scholastic Achievement?," is…

Longitudinal data on the auditory forward and backward digit span (FDS and BDS) subtests of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) were obtained at five age levels (between 6 and 13), in samples of white and black children. Factor analysis and analysis of variance of the data were conducted to test 5 hypotheses, related to Jensen's…

The importance and consequences of raising the average ability level (IQ) of the population requires consideration of the ability level that society requires, how the relevant abilities are distributed, and the efficiency of the current educational process. Within the framework of these factors, the document discusses the determinants of mental…

Discussed are the theoretical explanations of the observation that low intelligence quotient (IQ), low socioeconomic status children appear to be brighter in certain ways than low IQ middle class youngsters. The two different theories on IQ as a function of socioeconomic status--environmental or cultural vs. genetically determined biological…

Criticizes approach to equal education that seeks equality of outcome as well as equality of opportunity. Discusses Spearman's theory of g that attempts to explain individual differences in intelligence. Contrasts efforts at genuinely reducing equality of outcome, including Aptitude X Treatment Interaction, Mastery Learning, and Thinking Skills…