Until quite recently, it was generally accepted that both parents have a roughly equal influence on their child’s intelligence. However, it turns out – should this research be proven correct – that women have a much larger impact on their child’s cognitive abilities than men.
Now, it is important to understand that this research is quite controversial. Most studies claiming to uncover the enigmatic functioning of intelligence often evoke passionate debate. Relatedly, genetics is a highly-complex and multifaceted scientific arena. Studies are continuously being produced that seek to disavow, or seriously alter, any related study before it.
Regardless of the vigorous debate, it is beneficial to present (and interpret) these findings with an objective mind. If anything, this study is fascinatingly entertaining. Ultimately, this is our goal – to entertain. We hope that our readers find this study to be as intriguing as we have.
The Role of X and Y Chromosomes
Many people do not have much of a clue when it comes to genetics. As such, it’s beneficial to quickly go over a couple important facts. This will also make reading and understanding the remainder of this article much easier.
A chromosome is a thread-like structure consisting of nucleic acids and protein. They carry genetic information.
Every human being carries one pair of chromosomes in each cell.
Females have two X chromosomes. Males have one X and one Y chromosome.
“Conditioned Genes”
Conditioned genes, in the most basic sense, are those that are gender-specific. As a rule, the genetic properties of conditioned genes are either activated or deactivated depending upon the specific designation and, subsequently, the genetic properties being influenced.
Conditioned genes inherently contain a “tagging” system, which is made up of biochemical material. This tagging system allows two important things: (1) tracing to the gene’s point of origin, and (2) determination of an activated or deactivated state within the body. Activated genes will influence genetic development, while deactivated genes will not.
To the second point, if an individual characteristic is influenced via the mother, the paternal genes are deactivated. Conversely, if an attribute is influence via the father, the maternal genes are subsequently deactivated.
The mechanisms of conditioned genes form the basis of the intelligence study.
Findings of the Study and Related History
Cognition is thought to be influenced mainly by the X chromosome. Theoretically, women are more likely to influence cognition, as females possess two X chromosomes while men carry just one. Of course, there is much more to the theory than the number of X chromosomes.