Intelligence tests are “biased” in the sense that:
A test performance is influenced by cultural experiences.
B numerical scores of intelligence serve to dehumanize individuals.
C the validity of intelligence tests is close to zero.
D the heritability of intelligence is very high.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is A: A test performance is influenced by cultural experiences.
Explanation:
Intelligence tests are considered biased primarily because they can reflect the cultural, educational, and socio-economic backgrounds of the individuals taking them. The design and content of many traditional intelligence tests, such as IQ tests, often assume a certain level of familiarity with specific cultural contexts. For example, the test may include questions or references that are more familiar to people from certain cultures or social groups, while others might be less familiar with those same concepts or experiences. This creates a situation where individuals from different backgrounds or environments are at a disadvantage, not because they lack intelligence but because the test does not account for their specific life experiences or cultural contexts.
Cultural bias can influence various aspects of the test, including the language used, the types of knowledge assumed, and the problems presented. For example, an intelligence test might include a question that requires knowledge of Western historical events or references to particular cultural symbols, which may not be universally understood. This creates an uneven playing field where people from different backgrounds could perform poorly not due to a lack of cognitive ability but due to unfamiliarity with the content.
In addition, the way intelligence is defined and measured can be influenced by the cultural context of the test creators. Intelligence is often seen through a Western lens that emphasizes abstract reasoning, logic, and verbal skills, potentially overlooking other forms of intelligence, such as social or emotional intelligence, which may be more valued in different cultures.
In conclusion, intelligence tests can be biased because they often fail to account for the diverse ways in which people learn and think based on their cultural experiences. This is why it’s crucial to approach intelligence testing with an understanding of its potential limitations and biases.