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The Genius in All of Us: New Insights into Genetics, Talent, and IQ Audiobook
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(3.02) - 657 listener ratings
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Publisher Description
With irresistibly persuasive vigor, David Shenk debunks the long-standing notion of genetic “giftedness,” and presents dazzling new scientific research showing how greatness is in the reach of every individual. DNA does not make us who we are. “Forget everything you think you know about genes, talent, and intelligence,” he writes. “In recent years, a mountain of scientific evidence has emerged suggesting a completely new paradigm: not talent scarcity, but latent talent abundance.” Integrating cutting-edge research from a wide swath of disciplines—cognitive science, genetics, biology, child development—Shenk offers a highly optimistic new view of human potential. The problem isn't our inadequate genetic assets, but our inability, so far, to tap into what we already have. IQ testing and widespread acceptance of “innate” abilities have created an unnecessarily pessimistic view of humanity—and fostered much misdirected public policy, especially in education. The truth is much more exciting. Genes are not a “blueprint” that bless some with greatness and doom most of us to mediocrity or worse. Rather our individual destinies are a product of the complex interplay between genes and outside stimuli-a dynamic that we, as people and as parents, can influence. This is a revolutionary and optimistic message. We are not prisoners of our DNA. We all have the potential for greatness. Includes a bonus PDF of the back pages, containing chapter notes, expansions on the material, and a bibliography
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"Especially liked the layperson's description of how the brain is built for continual growth; enjoyed the first half better than the second half...the recommendations for giving parents/students/colleagues concrete ways to move neuroscience research into learning in the classroom and home are really helpful."
— Jerry (4 out of 5 stars)
The Genius in All of Us Listener Reviews
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" An interesting read for parents on how they can influence the development of their children. "
— Vicky, 2/6/2014 -
" This book was interesting to read, but only sub-par in its reporting of genetic information. "
— Alicia, 2/5/2014 -
" FABULOUS book. I everyone who feels worthless or unable to learn should read this. "
— Alicia, 2/1/2014 -
" Interesting book comparing traditional Mendalian genetics vs. breakthrough genetics + environment genetics. It's not just a nature vs. nurture argument for the people we become but a combination of both. "
— Brett, 1/23/2014 -
" The author basically explained how genetics does not necessarily code for genius and that a whole bunch more (including our environment) influences our lives that genes. "
— Brandon, 1/23/2014 -
" I am in the field of early childhood education. This is the book that I've been wishing for. A great read for teachers, parents, and people who wants to know more about intelligence. "
— Paul, 1/14/2014 -
" Some very interesting ideas -- but does one have to say the same things -- nearly verbatim -- half a dozen times on each page? "
— Edel, 1/3/2014 -
" Inspiring! Intelligence is not determined entirely by genetics. It's Genetics + Environment, and mostly environment. You can learn anything you want! "
— Angela, 12/14/2013 -
" A nail in the coffin for genetic determinism. Useful for parents when thinking about what we or out children 'cannot' do. "
— Steve, 11/24/2013 -
" what makes a genius? not so much genes or genetics. The recipe is: hardwork, persistence, competition, excellent training methods and/or teacher (at an early age as possible) "
— Johan, 11/7/2013 -
" Very interesting studies about where 'genius' is born. Very good read. "
— Kari, 10/29/2013 -
" Great introduction, very useful references. "
— Hw, 9/21/2012 -
" This is a well written inspiring book. It is organized in an interesting fashion with 158 pages dedicated to Sources and Notes, Clarifications and Amplifications. "
— Chris, 8/3/2012 -
" I absolutely loved this book! It was fascinating, intriguing and it made me want to be better :) "
— Miya, 12/23/2011 -
" Enjoyable. Good read and interesting research. "
— Susan, 6/27/2011 -
" I loved this book. It definitely made me think...and continue thinking after I put the book down. Definitely a recommend! "
— Cassy, 5/31/2011 -
" I liked this book, but wished there was more meat to it. It does have extensive chapter notes, but short of reading all the same materials he read, they don't really help me understand it more. "
— Jeannine, 5/20/2011 -
" Another self-help book from Dad. Happy, happy. Joy, joy. All about how dangerous and limiting it is to insist that our talents and potentials are a result of biology alone. "
— sheena, 5/17/2011 -
" Interesting book. I already believe that you can do anything if you try hard enough. If you want to accomplish something bad enough nothing but yourself can stop you, so this book confirmed in my mind what I really already believed. "
— Stephanie, 5/13/2011
About David Shenk
David Shenk is the author of five national bestsellers including The Forgetting, Data Smog, and, most recently, The Immortal Game. He is a contributor to National Geographic, Slate, Gourmet, Harper’s, the New Yorker, NPR, and PBS.
About Mark Deakins
Mark Deakins is an AudioFile Earphones Award–winning narrator and actor whose television appearances include Head Case, Star Trek: Voyager, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. His film credits include Intervention, Star Trek: Insurrection, and The Devil’s Advocate. He wrote, directed, and produced the short film The Smith Interviews.