Are we getting dumber? The idea that human intelligence is on the decline might sound like a dystopian exaggeration, but recent research suggests there’s more truth to it than we’d like to admit.
Cognitive skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, information processing, and even basic concentration are reportedly weakening across age groups globally.
But why is this happening, and what does it mean for us as a society? Are we really losing our edge? Studies from various reputable organisations have shown that our cognitive abilities are taking a hit.
For instance, the University of Michigan’s “Monitoring the Future” study revealed that 18-year-olds in America are experiencing increasing difficulty concentrating.
Globally, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which measures the learning skills of 15-year-olds, has also shown a steady decline in cognitive performance since the 2010s.
While the Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these trends, the decline began long before lockdowns and remote learning disrupted education. This indicates that the issue runs deeper than temporary disruptions it’s part of a longer-term societal shift.
What’s behind the cognitive decline?
Modern technology has transformed how we consume information.
While screens have made life more convenient, they’ve also rewired our brains in ways that might not be beneficial. Studies show that excessive screen time negatively impacts verbal functioning in children and reduces the ability of college students to concentrate and retain knowledge.
South Africans, no different to much of the world, are spending more time glued to their devices.
According to a 2023 report by Statista, South Africans spend an average of 10 hours a day online. This level of digital engagement has led to shorter attention spans and a reliance on “bite-sized” information, reducing our ability to engage deeply with complex ideas.
The decline of reading culture
Reading for leisure is another casualty of the digital age. In the US, only 37.6% of adults reported reading a novel or short story in 2022 a sharp decline compared to previous years. In South Africa, literacy levels are already a challenge, signalling a more concerning shift.
A 2016 study by the South African Book Development Council revealed that only 14% of South Africans are active book readers. This lack of engagement with reading limits opportunities to expand vocabulary, improve comprehension, and develop critical thinking skills.
Educational challenges
The South African education system, like many others, is struggling to keep up with the demands of a fast-changing world. The latest results from the “Progress in International Reading Literacy Study” (PIRLS) revealed that 81% of South African Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language.
This foundational issue limits children’s ability to develop higher-order thinking skills later in life. Globally, education systems are also grappling with how to prepare students for a future dominated by AI and rapid technological advancement.
Some argue that an over-reliance on technology in education is eroding basic skills like numeracy and problem-solving.
The Flynn effect reversal
The Flynn Effect the observed rise in IQ scores over the 20th century seems to be reversing. While factors like better nutrition, smaller family sizes, and improved education once boosted cognitive abilities, those gains are now being overshadowed by new challenges.
Modern distractions, environmental pollution, and the overwhelming pace of life may be contributing to this reversal. Additionally, social inequality exacerbates the problem.
Access to quality education, nutritious food, and stimulating environments is still a privilege for many South Africans.
Without addressing these systemic issues, reversing the trend will be an uphill battle.
What can be done?
Reignite a culture of reading: Promoting the joy of reading is crucial. Initiatives like community libraries, book clubs, and free online reading resources can help foster a love for literature, especially among young people.
Schools and parents should encourage reading for pleasure, not just academic purposes.
Limit screen time: While technology is here to stay, mindful usage can make a difference.
Parents can set screen time limits for children, and individuals can consciously take breaks from their devices. We could also explore digital detox programs or apps designed to help manage screen time.
Rethink education: South Africa’s curriculum needs to adapt to focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Embracing innovative teaching methods and integrating technology responsibly can help students prepare for the challenges of the future.
Address inequality: Closing the gap in access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition is non-negotiable. Government and private sector partnerships can play a role in creating opportunities for all South Africans to thrive cognitively and economically.
While the data suggests a decline in certain cognitive skills, it’s not all doom and gloom. Human intelligence is complex and multifaceted, and while some abilities may be weakening, others are evolving.
For instance, today’s youth are incredibly adept at navigating digital landscapes and multitasking.
