Lessons from the Bell Curve

Abstract

This paper examines the argument presented in The Bell Curve. A central argument is that one factor-g-accounts for correlation across test scores and performance in society. Another central argu- ment is that g cannot be manipulated. These arguments are com- bined to claim that social policies designed to improve social perfor- mance cannot be effective. A reanalysis of the evidence contradicts this story. The factors that explain wages receive different weights than the factors that explain test scores. More than g is required to explain either. Other factors besides g contribute to social perfor- mance, and they can be manipulated.