From the algorithms that make online social media accounts work to the technology in your smartwatches, the world has never seemed more advanced and technologically developed. That is why it would be easy to assume that, with each generation, people are becoming smarter. But is that so?

This is a question that many scientists have asked, especially given that over the course of the twentieth century the average results of IQ test gratis have increased significantly.

The increase is around three IQ points per decade, which means that technically speaking, you live with more geniuses on the planet than at any other time in history.

This increase in IQ results and the apparent tendency for intelligence levels to increase over time are known as the Flynn effect. Improvements in health and nutrition, education and working conditions, along with recent access to technology, have also contributed to this effect.

Technology: The main factors that led to the increase in IQ

For example, in the 19th century, industrialization created overcrowded cities with poor health and premature death. However, many have come to live longer lives with improved real estate services, health and access to free education, as well as gradual progress from manual to intellectual work. Research even suggests that there may be a link between IQ and mortality, so smarter people live longer.

Studies conducted in countries that have not gone through post-industrial development support the idea that improved access to education, housing and nutrition are the main factors that have led to increases in IQ.

Technology: What do IQ tests measure and not actually measure?

Another thing to consider is that in the last over 50 years, the compliance of IQ tests has been repeatedly questioned. Some have described them as incorrect, biased and inappropriate. Indeed, the use of IQ tests for selection at work or school has declined.

So to answer the question of whether people are really getting smarter, it’s hard to say. However, it is certain that poorer IQ results are not necessarily a sign that people are now less intelligent, but rather that people have poorer IQ tests.

It is also important to note what IQ tests do and do not actually measure. For example, IQ tests are not good for measuring personality, creativity or social and emotional intelligence, and even wisdom.