The Idea of Intelligence: An Evolution, by RJ Hetvi
What do we really mean when we talk about intelligence? Is it an inherent trait, a measurable ability, or a concept shaped by society itself?In this episode, we trace the evolution of intelligence as an idea beginning with the early 20th century work of Alfred Binet and Théodore Simon, who designed intelligence tests to support children’s learning, not define their potential. Over time, however, intelligence came to be viewed as fixed and hereditary, often intertwined with notions of race, geography, and genetic “fitness.”This discussion critically examines how scientific concepts like intelligence are not developed in isolation, but are influenced by social hierarchies, political contexts, and cultural frameworks. How did a tool for educational support transform into a marker of inherent ability? And what does this shift reveal about the relationship between science and society?