I Don't Think Logic Equals Intelligence
A colleague of mine said something I found interesting. He said the smartest people he knows eat junk food and don't exercise. On the other hand, the dumbest people he knows eat healthy and exercise.
I found myself amused by his observations. I could understand his perspective, but I don't agree. Why is that? Because the people from his observations are framed in a confirmation bias light. But it got me thinking: logical thought process does not automatically equate to intelligence.
My Basis of Disagreement
For starters, I've met fit smart people, and unfit "less bright" people. Similarly, I've met Ivy-educated people who shockingly didn't seem to have critical thinking skills or the ability to form thoughtful opinions. They were talented at being straight-A+ students. I've also met strugglers of life who were sharp. But they were limited in knowledge.
I've noticed it's common to link cynicism and nihilism with intelligence. Someone who shares a hopeful outlook on a particular subject is likely to be called out by someone who states logistical reasons why it doesn't work. Here's the thing: Negative outlooks are sometimes correct — but not all the time. Sure, it's easy to give seemingly logical reasons why something wouldn't work. I'd sound even smarter if I said it confidently too. But I'd say it's ideal to consider all critical elements before making a judgment call — as opposed to being a contrarian out the gate.
Anecdotally speaking, in my late teens and early twenties, I thought being a contrarian made me unique. It fed my ego. But it didn't amount to anything. Not by a long shot. Having a negative outlook, being cynical, and being a contrarian didn't serve me at all. In fact, it did me a disservice because it led me nowhere, and that's not bright at all.
I believe being smart is one of those things most people assume they are. If you aren't familiar with the Dunning-Kruger effect, allow me. It's a concept where people with limited knowledge or competence in a specific domain overestimate their own ability. In other words, inexperienced people believing they're naturally experienced. Since everyone connects the dots in their own way, everyone sees themselves as logical — and we equate logic with intelligence.
I also believe this amplifies within social circles. Every individual places their own value of what intelligence looks like. This includes what media they choose to consume and who they spend time with. If you spend most of your time playing Dungeons & Dragons or listening to certain podcasts, you'll probably see people who do the same things as smart.
What’s True Intelligence
A Powerful Combo
In my opinion, where logistical reasoning and emotional perceptiveness meet is where true intelligence lies. I think your average individual can logistically connect the dots based on whatever information they have access to. If person A told you to buy $1,000 in shares of Netflix in 2005 because they said "Trust me bro," you'd probably ignore that advice. But if you saw sophisticated market data research with information about how the digital age will transform the world — so much that it will change how we consume movies and physical locations will decline — you might think "well, why not? The risk vs reward is a no-brainer."
Brutal Self-Awareness
Being able to recognize and identify emotions and feelings. Understanding and distinguishing between clouding emotions that may distort your perception and genuine intuition. The ability to reflect internally on your thoughts, behaviors, and emotional patterns. Developing the capacity to control and self-regulate your emotions. Being able to release thoughts and regulate overthinking.
Void of Ego-Centrism
Being able to recognize, interpret, and understand the feelings within a room's atmosphere, as well as the emotional state of the specific person they are engaging with in conversation.
(Works wonders in sales and marketing by the way)
Full disclaimer
I'm not calling anyone dumb. I'm simply sharing my perspective on intelligence. I'm not claiming to be a genius. I'd consider myself average intelligence.
