Question

Throw light upon relative role of Heredity and Environment on the development of Intelligence.

Hint:

Think of it like a seed (Heredity) and the soil/water (Environment). Even the best seed won't grow without good soil.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The "Nature vs. Nurture" debate in intelligence explores how much of our cognitive ability is fixed at birth versus how much is shaped by our life experiences.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Role of Heredity (Nature): Studies on identical twins reared apart show high correlations in IQ scores, suggesting that genetics provide a "ceiling" or a potential range for intelligence.
2. Role of Environment (Nurture): Nutrition, quality of schooling, socio-economic status, and early intellectual stimulation determine where within that genetic range an individual will actually fall.
3. The Interactionist View: Modern psychology suggests that Heredity sets the limits, while Environment determines the realization of that potential. For instance, a child with high genetic potential for music will not become a virtuoso without access to an instrument and training.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Intelligence is neither 100% inherited nor 100% learned; it is a complex product of biological blueprints and environmental opportunities.