Reddit reviews IQ: A Smart History of a Failed Idea

"Psychologists should stop saying that IQ tests measure intelligence. They should say that IQ tests measure abstract problem-solving ability."

That's a quote from the book IQ: A Smart History of a Failed Idea. Basically, IQ tests are good at measuring your aptitude at one or two aspects of intelligence. That's it. They don't measure how successful you will be, how you will perform under pressure, or other incredibly important traits like work ethic, social skills, ambition, and integrity.

There's seemingly an epidemic of kids being told they are geniuses when they are young, then growing up and being disheartened because it hasn't gotten them anywhere. Some will blame the school system or their parents or society for not harnessing their raw genius. I think the more likely explanation is that IQ itself isn't a good evaluation of intelligence and certainly not a good predictor of future success or happiness.

With that said, if you do have an IQ in that range (I only say if because the tests themselves are often flawed and prone to proctoring errors), it means you have a decent foundation for pursuing your interests. A high IQ isn't a trait you can just fall back on, but it will help when combined with a drive to sharpen your skills and better yourself.

http://www.amazon.com/IQ-Smart-History-Failed-Idea/dp/0471699772