Global IQ rankings: Japan leads the class and Greece needs to work harder
Source: NEOS KOSMOS
People often compare their intelligence to others – friends, family, or strangers. However, intelligence isn’t only a product of individual traits; it’s shaped by factors like environment, upbringing, and education.
However, which countries boast the highest average IQs? In 2024, a study by CEOWORLD magazine revealed that almost two-thirds of people globally believe they are more intelligent than the average person.
According to the research, Japan tops the list with an average IQ of 106.48. This imposing score is attributed to Japan’s rigorous educational system, substantial investment in research and development, and policies that emphasize education and technological advancement. China, Singapore, South Korea, and Finland are all scored above a ton. Australia came in at 17 with an impressive 99.2.
Greece ranked of 55 with a score of 90.00, while its Balkan neighbours came in just under with North Macedonia at 81.9, Serbia 89.6, and Albania on 81.5.
On the other end of the spectrum, countries like Nepal, Liberia, and Sierra Leone rank among those with the lowest average IQs, with Nepal scoring the lowest at 42.99. Although IQ tests remain a debated measure of intelligence, they continue to be widely used and recognized.
IQ, or intelligence quotient, is a measure of cognitive capabilities assessed through standardised tests that evaluate skills like memory, problem-solving, mathematics, and language proficiency. The average IQ score is set at 100, with higher scores reflecting greater cognitive ability.
However, IQ is only one indicator of cognitive potential and doesn’t encompass all facets of intelligence. A country’s average IQ score does not define the potential or abilities of every individual within that nation. Thus, while a high average IQ might suggest a strong educational system, it doesn’t capture the entire spectrum of intelligence.
Countries that consistently rank high in average IQ often have well-established educational systems, significant investment in research and development, and effective policies. These elements contribute to a population that performs exceptionally well on IQ tests.
Top 20 Countries by Average IQ in 2024
1. Japan – 106.48
2. Taiwan – 106.47
3. Singapore – 105.89
4. Hong Kong – 105.37
5. China – 104.10
6. South Korea – 102.35
7. Belarus – 101.60
8. Finland – 101.20
9. Liechtenstein – 101.07
10. Germany – 100.74
11. Netherlands – 100.74
12. Estonia – 100.72
13. Luxembourg – 99.87
14. Macau – 99.82
15. Cambodia – 99.75
16. Canada – 99.52
17. Australia – 99.24
18. Hungary – 99.24
19. Switzerland – 99.24
20. United Kingdom – 99.12
While these rankings offer insight into global cognitive trends, intelligence is a complex trait that goes beyond numbers.
The original article: belongs to NEOS KOSMOS .
