I am not entirely convinced that past generations of human beings of 200 and 2000 years ago had lesser capability for intelligent thought and discourse then we currently possess.
You take child from 2000 bc and raise it today it will be able to function and contribute to the society equally as everyone else and it will be as intelligent and knowledgeable and wise as you or me if given the chance.
The difference is that today, more people have access to more knowledge and have more time to think and digest the information in an environment that is slightly more suitable for human habitation.
Technology advances with our advancements in understanding of surrounding environment.
This knowledge was obtained and build upon by successive generations that went before us, and who, by trial and error and bit of luck with extra spare time to think due to their personal circumstances allowed to progress our general knowledge and science.
Quote:
Originally Posted by twilightfoix
I am better than my parents just as my offspring will be better than me.
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Your statement about evolution is true if you define the “better” as better adapted to the present, or changed environment.
Children of migrants who grow up in new (for parents) environment, are better adapted to this environment then the parents. And are able to flourish in it better then the parents; However there are helpless if exposed to the environment of their parents.
Greater Intelligence in your children in an environment where such “betterment” (in your eyes) if not appreciated or recognized by prevailing society will prove to be rather “Bad” evolutionary turn hampering development of full potential of your offspring.
As contrary to let as say less mental capacity but greater physical capacity to be a football player (soccer) or similar
With the Intelligence it is added difficult, because any tests are as good as the people who created them. Thus if you exceed any standards in a non standard or accepted ways then the general assumption is you are not doing it right because the judges which are your seniors and usually superiors by majority may not recognize nor accept or be willing to notice the “genius” of your logic or any deviation to standard and official ways that makes them be the authority in the first place.
There are exceptions, of course but my conclusion is that what is hampering human development is humanity itself.
BTW: my signature is a quote from George Orwell, it just happen that my own observations kind of concur with his assessment
