We know that the heritability coefficient for intelligence is roughly +0.50.What does this actually mean?
A) Intelligence is 50% heritable and 50% due to the environment.
B) 50% of the variability in IQ scores within a population is due to genetics.
C) If IQ scores within a population vary by more than 50%, then IQ is due to genetics.
D) As genetics relatedness increases, so does the correlation between IQ scores.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The heritability coefficient of 0.50 means that 50% of the variability in IQ scores within a population can be attributed to genetic factors, while the remaining 50% is due to environmental factors. It does not mean that intelligence itself is 50% heritable or that IQ scores cannot vary by more than 50% due to genetics. The coefficient also does not imply that as genetics relatedness increases, so does the correlation between IQ scores. Therefore, option B is the correct choice.

We Know That the Heritability Coefficient for Intelligence Is Roughly