The term "high IQ" generally refers to individuals who score significantly above average on standardized intelligence tests. While there isn't a single, universally defined "high IQ" group, the most well-known organization associated with high intelligence is Mensa.
What is Mensa?
Mensa is the largest and oldest high-IQ society in the world. It's a non-profit organization that offers a community for individuals with exceptional cognitive abilities.
Mensa's Membership Criteria
- To qualify for Mensa membership, an individual must score at or above the 98th percentile on a standardized, supervised IQ test. This means the individual must score higher than 98% of the general population.
- Mensa also accepts scores from other approved intelligence tests that meet their high standards.
What Mensa Offers
- Social Interaction: Mensa provides a platform for members to connect with others who share similar intellectual interests and abilities.
- Diverse Activities: Members participate in various activities, from local gatherings and discussions to national and international conferences.
- Networking and Support: Mensa fosters a sense of community and offers opportunities for networking and peer support.
Other Ways to Define High IQ
While Mensa provides a clear threshold for high IQ (98th percentile), it's important to note that:
- IQ Scores are a Spectrum: Intelligence exists on a spectrum, and high IQ can be interpreted differently depending on the specific context.
- No Single Measurement: The concept of intelligence is complex and cannot be fully captured by a single test score.
- Other High IQ Societies: Although Mensa is the largest, there are other less well known high IQ societies.
Key Takeaways
- Mensa: The best example of a group associated with high IQ, they require an IQ in the 98th percentile or higher.
- Percentile: High IQ is often defined by percentile scores on intelligence tests rather than a fixed IQ score.
- Community: High-IQ groups provide social and intellectual support for members.
