Gender Comparison in Cognition: Determining the Superior Mind
In a groundbreaking review of public polls spanning over seven decades, it has been revealed that the perception of gender equality in intelligence has significantly shifted. In 1946, only 35% of people believed men and women were equally intelligent, while in 2018, this figure soared to 86% [13]. This change suggests that gender stereotypes might soon be a thing of the past.
Research from various sources supports this notion. Dr Elizabeth Spelke of Harvard University found that boys and girls were equally smart in maths and science [10]. Similarly, a study showed that women living in countries with high gender-equality performed better at cognitive tests compared to those living in countries with traditional gender norms [11].
However, it is important to note that while structural differences between male and female brains have been observed, these differences do not necessarily imply cognitive superiority of one gender over the other.
For instance, females generally have a larger ratio of grey matter to white matter in certain areas, such as the superior temporal gyrus. In contrast, males have more white matter in regions like the frontal and temporal perisylvian areas [1]. Female brains also tend to have more inter-hemispheric connectivity, with larger commissural tracts like the anterior commissure and massa intermedia [1]. These structural differences may influence how males and females approach cognitive tasks, but they do not dictate cognitive superiority.
Intelligence is a complex trait influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors. Studies show that men exhibit greater variability in IQ scores, but the average IQ between genders is similar [2]. Research into fluid (innovative problem-solving) and crystallized (accumulated knowledge) intelligence highlights that both types have distinct neural correlates but do not show significant gender-based differences in overall cognitive performance [4].
Interestingly, it has been found that intelligence is inherently gender neutral and can be influenced by factors such as social environment, education, exercise, nutrition, stress, and sleep [14]. Furthermore, reinforcing gender stereotypes before cognitive tests can lead to performance that matches the stereotype, with females performing better at verbal tests and men performing better on object orientation tests [6].
However, conforming to negative gender stereotypes can have detrimental effects. A study found that men who conform to negative male gender stereotypes were more isolated and had higher rates of psychiatric issues [7].
In conclusion, while structural differences between male and female brains exist, these differences primarily reflect variations in cognitive strategies rather than inherent cognitive superiority. Intelligence is a complex trait influenced by a myriad of factors, and individual variations are more significant than gender-based differences. It is essential to continue challenging and dismantling harmful gender stereotypes to foster a more equitable society.
- Despite the identified differences in the structure of male and female brains in certain regions, such as the superior temporal gyrus and the frontal and temporal perisylvian areas, these variations do not indicate that one gender is cognitively superior to the other.
- Recognizing the importance of dissolving gender stereotypes, research has shown that reinforcing such stereotypes before cognitive tests can lead to performance that correlates with those stereotypes, with females excelling in verbal tests and men in object-oriented tests.
- Advocating for an equal and equitable society, it is crucial to acknowledge the complex nature of intelligence, which is influenced by a variety of factors and often surpasses gender-based differences, addressing cultural, environmental, and social norms that perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
