To assess the intelligence of a committee, divide the IQ…
“To assess the intelligence of a committee, divide the IQ of its stupidest member by the number of members.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Intelligence of a group is limited by its weakest member and its size.
In simple terms: Group IQ depends on the least smart person and how many are there.
Key Takeaway
Beware over‑reliance on group decisions.
Themes
leadership
decisionmaking
group dynamics
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- board meetings
- project teams
- committees
- policy panels
Key Concepts
collective intelligence
dilution effect
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure diverse voices are heard?
- What safeguards prevent dominance by the least capable?
A Different Perspective
Assumes the “stupidest” member can be identified objectively.