It’s not just your perception – we really are becoming less intelligent as a species. According to Dr. Gerald Crabtree, a researcher at Stanford University, this decline in human intelligence began with the invention of agriculture, which has made life easier for us. As we no longer have to rely on our wits to hunt wild animals for food, our intellectual and emotional capabilities have been gradually decreasing over the millennia.
The Genetic Decline of Intelligence
The primary reason for this decline in intelligence is that genes responsible for brainpower are susceptible to mutations. As life has become easier, the power of natural selection to weed out harmful mutations has weakened.
It used to be that people with low intelligence were more likely to die young – perhaps eaten by a saber-toothed tiger. Nowadays, those same people might be sitting at home watching reality shows and texting. If they somehow end up in a dangerous situation, chances are that they will have another opportunity in life rather than facing dire consequences.
Urbanization: A Culprit
Dr. Crabtree believes that the weakening of natural selection coincided with the development of agriculture, which led to urbanization. This progression allowed mutations leading to intellectual disabilities to be more easily passed on.
Based on calculations regarding the frequency of harmful mutations in the human genome and the estimated 2,000 to 5,000 genes required for intellectual ability, Crabtree estimates that within 3,000 years (about 120 generations), each person will have sustained two or more mutations that negatively affect their intellectual or emotional stability.
Susceptible Brain Function Genes
Recent findings in neuroscience have found that genes involved in brain function are uniquely susceptible to mutations. The combination of weaker selective pressures and the large number of affected genes is contributing to the erosion of our intellectual and emotional capabilities.
The Future of Human Intelligence
So, what does the future hold for human intelligence? Are we headed toward the complete deterioration of our intellectual capacities? Fortunately, Dr. Crabtree believes that technology will eventually step in and rescue our brains from this downward spiral.
In the meantime, it is essential that we continue to challenge and nourish our minds. Activities like engaging in intellectually stimulating conversations, reading thought-provoking books, and participating in educational activities can help maintain brain function and even improve it.
Actively Combat Declining Intelligence
To resist the genetic decline in intelligence, consider taking the following steps to promote strong cognitive function throughout your lifespan:
- Stay physically active: Exercise is proven to have a positive effect on cognitive function. Physical activity can also help maintain a healthy body weight, which may be linked to higher intelligence.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can contribute to brain health. In particular, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and nuts have been linked to improved cognitive function.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential for proper brain function. Inadequate sleep can lead to cognitive decline over time.
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Stay socially engaged: Maintaining strong social connections has been shown to support brain health. Reach out to friends and family, engage in community activities, and collaborate with others on projects to stay connected.
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Learn new skills: Pursue hobbies and interests that involve learning new information or mastering new abilities. This will help keep your brain sharp and also support emotional well-being.
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Train your brain: Many brain training programs are available online or as apps that can help improve cognitive function through games and exercises. While their effectiveness varies, some have been shown to have a positive impact.
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Reduce stress: Chronic stress can have a negative effect on the brain, particularly in areas related to memory. Practice techniques like deep breathing and meditation to manage stress and protect your cognitive health.
Conclusion
Though research suggests that we are gradually losing our intellectual abilities as a species, there are steps that we can take to combat this trend. By making an effort to maintain and sharpen our cognitive skills, we can resist the decline in intelligence caused by genetic mutations and the erosion of our capabilities. So, keep learning, stay engaged, and give your brain the workout it needs to help counter this intellectual decay.
