Average IQ of a physicist/mathematician

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the average IQ of physicists and mathematicians, initiated by a young participant curious about pursuing a career in these fields. The conversation touches on the relevance of IQ in academic success and personal motivation, with various perspectives shared on the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that IQ is a meaningless number and emphasize the importance of passion and dedication over test scores.
  • Others argue that while high IQ may correlate with certain academic abilities, it is not the sole determinant of success in obtaining a PhD.
  • A participant mentions their own high IQ score and questions its significance regarding pursuing a PhD in Theoretical Physics.
  • Concerns are raised about the perception of Mensa and its members, with some expressing skepticism about its reputation among academics.
  • There is a discussion about the potential decline of IQ scores as children grow older and the importance of motivation and desire to learn.
  • Several posts shift towards light-hearted banter and personal anecdotes, diverging from the initial inquiry about IQ.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally do not reach a consensus on the significance of IQ in relation to success in physics or mathematics. Multiple competing views remain regarding the relevance of IQ and the qualities that contribute to academic achievement.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that IQ tests for children differ from those for adults, and there are studies suggesting that early indicators of genius may not predict future success. The discussion also reflects a mix of serious inquiry and playful interaction, which may affect the focus on the original topic.

phynoldus
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Hi, i was just wondering what is the average iq of a physicist?
Just asking because i am only 12 yo and i really want a career in mathematics/physics.
 
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Don't worry about IQ, it's just a meaningless number. If you want to be a physicist, then go for it.
 
If you're smart enough to know what physics is at the age of 12, then you're definitely up for it.
 
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Haha, your probably right but its nothing wrong with my iq at all i am a mensa member so i was just wondering:D
 
phynoldus said:
Hi, i was just wondering what is the average iq of a physicist?
Just asking because i am only 12 yo and i really want a career in mathematics/physics.

Som shrinks took a IQ test of me and i scored over 170, i was very excited about it but is that enough to get a phd in Theoretical Physics?

IQ alone is irrelevant generally, although correlations certainly exist. An IQ of 170 offers few intellectual impediments to getting a PhD in any field, and many with IQ less than 120 get get one.

But, no test score, no matter how high, is enough to get a Ph.D. in any field. Love of learning, dedication, focus and hard work are other key ingredients.
 
phynoldus said:
Haha, your probably right but its nothing wrong with my iq at all i am a mensa member so i was just wondering:D

Mensa?

A club for a bunch of people with stuffed shirts.
 
phynoldus said:
Haha, your probably right but its nothing wrong with my iq at all i am a mensa member so i was just wondering:D
Isn't it a bit early in the day to be trolling? :wink:
 
WannabeNewton said:
Isn't it a bit early in the day to be trolling? :wink:

That depends on who you're trolling...
 
micromass said:
That depends on who you're trolling...
Marry me o:)
 
  • #10
Get a room you guys! :smile:
 
  • #11
Evo said:
Get a room you guys! :smile:
Someone's jealous of me and micro's marital status...
 
  • #12
WannabeNewton said:
Someone's jealous of me and micro's marital status...
:cry: Don't rub salt into the wound.
 
  • #13
phynoldus said:
Hi, i was just wondering what is the average iq of a physicist?
Just asking because i am only 12 yo and i really want a career in mathematics/physics.

I wouldn't worry about your IQ. It really doesn't mean much when it comes to career success. Keep studying science and math and you'll be prepared to do physics when the time comes!
 
  • #14
WannabeNewton said:
Isn't it a bit early in the day to be trolling? :wink:

What do you mean?
 
  • #15
phynoldus said:
What do you mean?
I think he means if you're only 12, you don't understand what MENSA is. It's a group of highly opinionated and political people. It's not an organization that is thought of highly by academics, in general.

Also, your IQ will most likely decrease as you get older. The IQ tests for children are not the ones given to adults. So don't get too hung up on a number. There are many studies that show "child genius" starts to drop after age 14 anyway. Many members here exceed your "IQ" results, but you won't hear them talking about it.

What counts is your motivation and desire to learn. Your interests may change as you gain more knowledge and mature. So keep an open mind and follow your instincts.

I finished high school when I was 14, and I can't hold a candle to most people on this forum. Knowing what you don't know is far more important than what you think you know. If only I had access to people like the ones on this forum, my world would have changed.

Take advantage of the incredible opportunity this forum offers to students. Leave any thougts of IQ at the door and enjoy what the amazing people at this forum can offer you.

And don't ask me for help, I have a business degree. :frown:
 
Last edited:
  • #16
Evo said:
I finished high school when I was 14...
Why was I never told this?! I think this is reason enough to leave micro for you
 
  • #17
WannabeNewton said:
Why was I never told this?! I think this is reason enough to leave micro for you
But micro is a math genius, you could never really love me knowing that.
 
  • #18
Evo said:
But micro is a math genius, you could never really love me knowing that.
Yeah but he also has like 50 cats and thinks Kate Upton is unattractive.
 
  • #19
WannabeNewton said:
Yeah but he also has like 50 cats and thinks Kate Upton is unattractive.
LOL, he has 2 cats. Don't know about Kate Upton. :-p
 
  • #20
Evo said:
LOL, he has 2 cats
2 cats 50 cats what's the difference they're still not as awesome as chacha
 
  • #21
WannabeNewton said:
2 cats 50 cats what's the difference they're still not as awesome as chacha

2 cats and a LocoChaCha = quite a circus :smile:
 
  • #22
WannabeNewton said:
2 cats 50 cats what's the difference

The answer is 48 cats, WBN.
 
  • #23
lisab said:
The answer is 48 cats, WBN.
:frown: makin fun of my math disabilities I see
 
  • #24
lisab said:
The answer is 48 cats, WBN.
*CHOKE* <snork>

AHAHAHA, good one lisab!

But one Chacha is as much trouble as 50 cats.
 
  • #25
phynoldus said:
Haha, your probably right but its nothing wrong with my iq at all i am a mensa member so i was just wondering:D

I take back what I said earlier:

InvalidID said:
If you're smart enough to know what physics is at the age of 12, then you're definitely up for it.
 
  • #26
As per request I am also professing my love for the highly intelligent and high IQ member jorriss.
 
  • #27
Evo said:
But one Chacha is as much trouble as 50 cats.

Wow. BAD!
 
  • #28
micromass said:
Wow. BAD!
I...am...BAD! :cry:

But I dote on the little beast.
 
  • #29
WannabeNewton said:
Someone's jealous of me and micro's marital status...
But things have obviously become boring in the bedroom. Seems both of you are always online here when I happen to log in.
 
  • #30
strangerep said:
But things have obviously become boring in the bedroom. Seems both of you are always online here when I happen to log in.
Well he's always online period. I'm just omnipresent >.>
 

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