It’s natural to wonder how we measure up when it comes to intelligence. Whether comparing ourselves to family, friends, or strangers, intelligence sparks curiosity and debate.
But have you ever wondered how countries measure up on a global scale?
Measuring intelligence across nations is no simple task. While IQ tests aren’t perfect measures of cognitive ability, they offer a glimpse into how we process information and solve problems. On most standardized tests, the average IQ is set at 100, with scores above or below that indicating higher or lower intelligence.
While some countries are celebrated for high IQ scores, what about those at the opposite end of the spectrum? Are there countries where IQ scores consistently fall lower, and what factors contribute to these differences?
Let’s explore the countries with the lowest IQ scores, examine the socio-economic and cultural factors that influence these rankings, and consider the challenges faced by these nations. Along the way, we’ll gain a better understanding of the implications of these low IQ scores, ultimately asking: Are IQ tests truly fair across cultures?
What Country Has the Lowest IQ in the World?
Nepal has one of the lowest average IQ scores in the world, reported at 42.99.
However, it’s important to note that IQ scores are influenced by various factors and should not be seen as definitive measures of intelligence. IQ tests reflect conditions such as access to education, nutrition, healthcare, and cultural context, which can all shape test outcomes. Additionally, socio-economic and political factors also contribute to national IQ averages, though these relationships are not universally accepted.
Richard Lynn and Tatu Vanhanen, authors of IQ and the Wealth of Nations, argue that there is a correlation between national IQ scores and economic development, suggesting that countries with high average IQ scores tend to be more prosperous. However, this theory has been widely criticized for methodological issues and potential biases, meaning their findings should be interpreted with caution.
While 42.99 remains the more widely accepted figure for Nepal’s IQ, it’s worth noting that some studies, such as those referenced by Worlddata.info, report a higher average IQ of 51. This discrepancy underscores how differing methodologies and sample sizes can lead to variations in reported IQ scores.
Word of Caution: Interpreting Low IQ Scores Across Countries
Before we dive into the rankings of lowest IQ scores around the world, it’s important to understand the broader implications of Intelligence Quotient (IQ) scores. IQ tests are often used to classify individuals into categories, and scores in the Moderate Mental Disability range (typically below 55-70) can indicate that a person might require assistance in daily functioning.
However, it's crucial to recognize that IQ tests are not universally applicable across different contexts.
These classifications are based on specific cultural norms and assumptions that may not reflect the diversity of cognitive abilities worldwide. For example, according to Steinberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence, factors such as contextual adaptation and practical problem-solving are often overlooked by traditional IQ tests. Similarly, Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences suggests that cognitive abilities are not limited to the linguistic and logical-mathematical skills measured by IQ tests but also include spatial, musical, and interpersonal intelligences, which may be more relevant in some cultural settings.
In addition to cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence and social intelligence—which involve recognizing and managing emotions and navigating social complexities—are critical aspects of human functioning that IQ tests do not measure. These forms of intelligence play a crucial role in how individuals interact within their communities and solve real-world problems, yet they are often absent from standardized IQ assessments.
It’s inaccurate to assume that the people living in these countries with low average IQ scores inherently lack cognitive abilities or need constant assistance.
Compared to countries with the highest average IQ scores, these nations often face unique challenges, such as limited access to quality education, healthcare, and other resources that support cognitive development. Many individuals in these countries function at a high level within their communities despite lower national IQ averages. Additionally, they may have untapped potential that has not been fully realized due to systemic barriers.
While some countries report average IQ scores that would technically fall into the Moderate Mental Disability range, the societal conditions in these countries do not necessarily reflect this level of need for assistance. Improvement in education, healthcare, and socio-economic conditions could significantly enhance cognitive development, illustrating that IQ scores alone cannot fully capture the capacity and potential of a nation's people.
Countries with the Lowest Average IQ Score: A Countdown
Understanding a country's average IQ score requires looking beyond the numbers. As we have discussed, IQ scores can offer insights into access to education, nutrition, and healthcare, but they don't capture the full potential or intelligence of a nation’s people.
The rankings here are based on data from multiple reputable sources. We have carefully researched and cross-referenced studies, including IQ and the Wealth of Nations by Richard Lynn and Tatu Vanhanen, along with more recent reports from the World Population Review and Datapandas.org. This approach ensures our findings reflect a comprehensive view of global IQ rankings, supported by both historical and up-to-date data.
Here are the countries with the lowest average IQ scores, ranked by their reported averages:
- South Sudan — Average IQ: 58.61
- Ghana — Average IQ: 58.16
- Ivory Coast — Average IQ: 58.16
- Guinea — Average IQ: 53.48
- Nicaragua — Average IQ: 52.69
- Gambia — Average IQ: 52.68
- Cape Verde — Average IQ: 52.5
- Guatemala — Average IQ: 47.72
- Sierra Leone — Average IQ: 45.07
- Liberia — Average IQ: 45.07
- Nepal — Average IQ: 42.99
Now that we have the numbers, let’s explore the factors influencing these scores, including education, socio-economic conditions, health, and political stability. Each country tells a unique story about the conditions that shape cognitive development and opportunities for improvement.
South Sudan’s average IQ is 58.61.
South Sudan, a nation with a rich history and vibrant cultural heritage, faces significant challenges that impact its reported average IQ. Years of conflict and political instability have strained the country's resources, limiting access to education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure. Despite ongoing efforts to improve its educational system, poverty and resource scarcity continue to hinder progress.
IQ tests are often criticized for cultural bias, and this may be particularly relevant in South Sudan, where cultural and linguistic diversity could affect test performance. These biases might mean that IQ scores do not fully reflect the population's cognitive potential. Instead, the scores highlight the urgent need for investment in education, healthcare, and socio-economic development. By addressing these challenges, South Sudan could unlock opportunities for its population and improve outcomes over time.
Ghana’s average IQ is 58.16.
Ghana, a country in West Africa, has made substantial progress in improving its education and healthcare systems. However, the country's average IQ score of 58.16 still falls below the global average.
The primary factors contributing to this score include poverty, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and persistent socio-economic disparities. Additionally, Ghana's colonial history may have influenced the development of its educational systems, potentially affecting IQ scores. Despite these challenges, Ghana is celebrated for its vibrant cultural heritage, music, and welcoming people, showcasing the nation’s resilience and potential for growth.
Ivory Coast’s average IQ is 58.16.
Ivory Coast has made significant investments in education and training programs, yet the country’s average IQ score remains low. Major challenges, including socioeconomic disparities, high poverty rates, political instability, and inadequate healthcare, continue to hinder progress.
With a population of over 26 million, providing accessible and quality education for all is a considerable challenge. While efforts have been made, there is still much work to be done to improve the Ivory Coast's average IQ score and enhance the overall well-being of its population.
Guinea’s average IQ is 53.48.
Guinea’s low average IQ score can be linked to its weak economy, political instability, inadequate infrastructure, and underdeveloped education systems. In 2021, the primary school completion rate was just 56% for girls and 70% for boys, according to the UNESCO Institute of Statistics (UIS data), reflecting significant challenges in educational access.
Socio-economic factors and historical influences also contribute to Guinea's reported IQ scores. However, with continued investment in education and efforts to address systemic inequalities, there is potential for Guinea to improve its average IQ score and enhance opportunities for its population.
Nicaragua’s average IQ is 52.69.
Economic instability and educational challenges significantly impact Nicaragua's average IQ. The country has faced persistent economic difficulties, including high levels of poverty and unemployment, which have hindered efforts to provide quality education and healthcare.
Nicaragua's large rural population presents additional obstacles to delivering accessible and effective education. Socio-economic disparities further widen the gaps in educational and healthcare access. However, recent progress in expanding education access and reducing poverty levels offers hope for improving opportunities and outcomes for the population.
Gambia’s average IQ is 52.68.
Gambia, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, music, dance, and traditional festivals, faces significant challenges that contribute to its lower average IQ. The country struggles with poverty and limited resources, particularly in education and healthcare, which are critical to cognitive development.
Inadequate infrastructure and a predominantly rural population further hinder access to quality education. Despite these obstacles, Gambia has implemented various initiatives to increase school enrollment and improve the quality of teaching, offering hope for long-term progress.
Cape Verde’s average IQ is 52.5.
Cape Verde, an island nation off the coast of West Africa, has made significant strides in improving its education systems in recent years. However, the country continues to face challenges stemming from its small size and limited resources. The reported average IQ score may not fully reflect the cognitive potential of Cape Verde's population but highlights areas where educational support and resources could be further strengthened.
Notably, Cape Verde boasts one of the highest literacy rates in Africa, showcasing its strong commitment to education. This achievement suggests that with continued investment in educational quality and access, the population's cognitive skills, as measured by IQ assessments, could see further improvement over time.
Guatemala’s average IQ is 47.72.
Guatemala, a country in Central America with a population of approximately 18 million, faces significant challenges contributing to its low average IQ score. Limited access to quality education and inadequate healthcare are among the primary factors. High poverty rates exacerbate the issue, with many children forced to drop out of school to work at a young age, limiting their educational and cognitive development.
Despite these challenges, recent efforts by the Guatemalan government to improve education and healthcare services show promise. Continued investment in these areas could help raise the average IQ and improve opportunities for future generations.
Sierra Leone’s average IQ is 45.07.
Sierra Leone faces significant challenges that contribute to its low average IQ score of 45.07. The country has endured a brutal civil war, outbreaks of deadly diseases like Ebola, and ongoing economic instability, all of which have hindered progress in education and healthcare.
Poor access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition further compounds the issue, limiting opportunities for cognitive and social development. However, continued investment in these critical areas could pave the way for a brighter future and help improve the country’s average IQ over time.
Liberia’s average IQ is 45.07.
As with other nations facing significant socio-economic challenges, Liberia's history of prolonged civil war and political instability underscores the profound impact that external factors can have on cognitive development. The lack of access to essential services like education, combined with high poverty rates, has contributed to low IQ scores in Liberia.
Beyond educational setbacks, Liberia also faces substantial challenges in nutrition and healthcare. A report by the World Food Programme found that 22% of children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition, which affects physical development and also significantly hinders cognitive growth. These nutrition-related issues are compounded by inadequate healthcare infrastructure, making it difficult to address both physical and cognitive health.
While efforts to improve education and healthcare are underway, the pace of progress in Liberia remains slow. As a result, Liberia’s low IQ scores continue to be among the lowest globally. However, continued investment in addressing education, health, and socio-economic challenges could eventually lead to improved cognitive development and higher IQ scores in the future.
Nepal’s average IQ is 42.99.
Nepal, with an average IQ score of 42.99, is often considered the country with one of the lowest IQ scores in the world. Its low average IQ can be attributed to several factors beyond the conventional understanding of intelligence. These challenges reflect not just the country’s educational shortcomings but also broader socio-economic and environmental conditions.
Nepal’s education system has historically been underfunded and underdeveloped, particularly in rural areas where much of the population resides. According to estimates from the World Bank, Nepal's literacy rate is only 63.3%, with significant disparities between genders and urban versus rural areas. This signifies that many children in these regions lack access to quality education, contributing to a persistently low literacy rate.
Further reports highlight that Nepal ranks among the lowest-performing countries in terms of education quality and learning outcomes. This lack of educational infrastructure significantly impacts the cognitive development measured by standardized IQ tests.
Moreover, the ongoing political instability in the region exacerbates these issues, making it difficult for the government to implement effective education and health programs. As a result, Nepal’s average IQ remains one of the lowest globally, though continued progress in education and socio-economic stability could improve this over time.
Closing Thoughts
Human intelligence is complex, and while IQ tests can provide insights into education, health, and socio-economic conditions, they don’t capture a population's full cognitive abilities.
Cultural bias and the narrow scope of IQ tests limit their accuracy. These tests fail to account for factors like social and emotional intelligence, creative thinking, analytical skills, and practical problem-solving, often overlooking the broader influences of environment, culture, and personal experiences.
The findings in this report emphasize that IQ scores should not be the sole measure of a population's potential.
Instead, investing in education, addressing poverty and inequality, and promoting inclusive personal growth are key to unlocking a nation’s true capabilities.
Just In Case You Had More Questions...
What factors contribute to lower IQ scores in countries?
The factors behind lower IQ scores in different countries include high poverty rates, limited access to education and healthcare, poor nutrition, environmental challenges, socio-economic disparities, and historical influences. These elements significantly impact cognitive development and can lead to lower average IQ scores across a population.
Is a low IQ determined exclusively by genetics in countries with lower IQ scores?
No, low IQ scores are not determined solely by genetics. While genetics may play a role in an individual’s cognitive abilities, the broader environmental context—including education, nutrition, healthcare, and socio-economic conditions—has a significant influence on the IQ scores of entire populations. Countries with low average IQ scores often face substantial educational and healthcare barriers, which affect cognitive development.
How can cultural biases in IQ tests affect results for countries with low IQ scores?
Cultural biases in IQ tests can result in inaccurate assessments of intelligence, especially for countries with lower IQ scores. Tests often reflect the cultural norms of the country in which they were developed, which may disadvantage individuals from other cultures. These biases can lead to artificially lower scores in countries where the test design doesn't align with the local context, thus not accurately capturing cognitive abilities.
Can a country with low IQ scores improve its national average?
Yes, a country with low IQ scores can improve its national average by addressing the underlying factors that contribute to low IQ scores, such as improving access to education, healthcare, proper nutrition, and socioeconomic stability. Investing in education systems and social infrastructure can lead to better cognitive development, resulting in higher IQ scores over time.
