[minority-one]

On the other hand, there's a consensus in the scientific community that IQ is the best predictor of outcome in life, despite the factors you've mentioned.

In other words, all being taken into consideration, it turns out IQ has an incredible predicting power regarding the lives of individuals. It's actually better at predicting life outcome than any other factor.

> And, of course, nurture over nature [...] matters way more than genetics.

That is the opposite of what current research into IQ has shown so far. If you go on YouTube, you can find interviews with Charles Murray, and that will help you understand this better.

> A good musician can become a good sharpshooter, a good programmer can excel at architectural engineering.

Yes, but it's not likely to happen (or you'd have oodles of examples). Predicting is all about what's more likely, and in this capacity, IQ has proven over and over again to be the single best predictor.

[JoeAltmaier]

I'm doubtful of that consensus. Is it a real measured thing, or just 'common knowledge' which adds up to urban legend.

I'd understood that the best predictor of success at a job is Conscientiousness. More than test scores, economic class, fancy schools.

[prodmerc]

IQ is only a good predictor when you compare low average and borderline (who indeed are at a disadvantage no matter their conditions) with average and higher.

Average, above average and higher scoring persons' outcome in life will depend more heavily on upbringing and surroundings than anything else.

In fact, those scoring the highest may actually end up worse - addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, etc. - all because they live well below their potential because of their circumstances...