Like my bio says, I write exclusively science fiction and fantasy. One of the most enjoyable things that comes out of those genres is constructing a new world-but even fantasy and sci fi worlds have elements of reality to them.
Let’s look at Alpha. In this world, those with money can basically pay to increase their child’s intelligence. This results in a society where the difference between rich and poor is taken to extremes. Rich children are given intelligence and success, while the poor are left to fend for themselves.
But when you think about it, that’s not so incredibly different from what we see today. IQ is more elastic than people think-it’s not solely what you’re born with. Kids given opportunities, who have their good health maintained, and who are supported by their parents, end up with higher intelligence than those who are less fortunate. Taking IQ out of the equation, the rich have vastly more opportunities than the poor, and are able to get better educations and have more access to healthcare-which are important factors to future success.
It’s not all doom and gloom, though. Those with both natural intelligence and resilience still make a name for themselves, regardless of their background. But too many are getting left behind, and there doesn’t seem to be any easy solutions forthcoming.
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