I’ve seen a lot more denial about the bottom of the distribution than the top. It’s one thing to acknowledge that some kids are naturally smart, but few people are willing to talk about the limitations of kids who struggle despite interventions.
Those who say “maybe genes matter, but who cares” seem believe everyone could succeed with pro…
I’ve seen a lot more denial about the bottom of the distribution than the top. It’s one thing to acknowledge that some kids are naturally smart, but few people are willing to talk about the limitations of kids who struggle despite interventions.
Those who say “maybe genes matter, but who cares” seem believe everyone could succeed with proper support. The existence of talented kids doesn’t threaten this vision. But if we get real about kids at the bottom, we have to acknowledge all sorts of uncomfortable truths about our current strategies.
I think that’s what people mean when they say “Well, genes matter a little, but….” They’re thinking about smart kids vs. average kids, and how the environment can shape outcomes for those who are capable of achieving. They won’t concede that kids at the bottom of the distribution face challenges that environment can’t fix.
I’ve seen a lot more denial about the bottom of the distribution than the top. It’s one thing to acknowledge that some kids are naturally smart, but few people are willing to talk about the limitations of kids who struggle despite interventions.
Those who say “maybe genes matter, but who cares” seem believe everyone could succeed with proper support. The existence of talented kids doesn’t threaten this vision. But if we get real about kids at the bottom, we have to acknowledge all sorts of uncomfortable truths about our current strategies.
I think that’s what people mean when they say “Well, genes matter a little, but….” They’re thinking about smart kids vs. average kids, and how the environment can shape outcomes for those who are capable of achieving. They won’t concede that kids at the bottom of the distribution face challenges that environment can’t fix.