What percentage of our intelligence is down to the environment we grew up in?

Question

Obviously our genes play a big part in our intellect, but without environmental stimulus we don't realize the potential of our brains.

I used to think it was 80% genes and 20% environment, but since I stopped hanging out with the dumb freinds from high school, I feel like my intelligence has improved dramatically. I've become more curious and have started to ask questions about the world that I never thought of asking before. Now I start to wonder how much more intelligent I could be if I sorround myself with the powerful minds.

Answer 1

I am a big believer in nurture over nature - environment over genes, so I'd say at least 51% is environment. Yes, hanging with the wrong people CAN have a negative effect and surrounding yourself with postive, smart people can "make" you smarter. You try harder.

Answer 2

Well, first off, we do use 100% of our brains. I know you didn't say we didn't, but I'm pretty sure that someone on here will feel the need to say this (which isn't true). If you want me to, I can dredge up the Time article for citation...

I would say that environment is a little higher, but that's just anecdotal, with no support.

But as for your idea, you would only see an improvement if your "powerful minds" discussed things with you and helped your mind grow, you wouldn't grow more intelligent from diffusion.