Intelligence and Obedience: The Unseen Dynamics Behind Leadership and Behavior

It is a widely recognized fact that intelligence and obedience are positively correlated. Just as obedience is crucial in training dogs, the same principles apply to human behavior. In this article, we will explore the relationship between intelligence, obedience, and leadership, drawing from the animal kingdom and human societies.

The Role of Obedience in Training and Society

According to research, obedience is far more significant than communication when it comes to training dogs. This principle holds true for human beings as well, as people tend to be more obedient when their circumstances are beyond their control. This tendency is particularly evident in people living under oppressive or depressing conditions, such as poverty or with authoritarian leaders. For instance, low-IQ countries often struggle with democratic institutions, frequently resorting to theocracies, tribalism, or other forms of dictatorships. Dogs, being the most obedient and loyal creatures, tend to blindly follow their leaders due to their inherent nature. They lack the ability to question authority and seek to survive by following instructions.

The Impact of Intelligence on Obedience

While most people have the potential to be obedient, higher intelligence can make it more challenging to control them. Individuals with higher intelligence possess the ability to think for themselves, making them less susceptible to being manipulated through rhetoric, emotional appeals, or intimidation. However, this does not mean they are completely resistant to control. Under the right circumstances, they can be influenced to comply. On the other hand, individuals with lower intelligence are more easily manipulated, often going along with whoever provides a simple solution or easy-to-understand rhetoric.

The global IQ demographics provide a telling picture of this dynamic. Countries with lower IQ scores tend to struggle with republican or democratic systems, often reverting toauthoritarian or theocratic forms of governance. In these societies, people generally accept authoritative guidance without question. In contrast, intelligent individuals require a sense of empowerment and freedom before they are satisfied with their leaders. This is a fundamental aspect of leadership and governance, highlighting the need for intelligently designed policies and strategies that appeal to diverse cognitive abilities.

The Workplace as a Microcosm of Intelligence and Obedience

The relationship between intelligence and obedience is also evident in the workforce. In organizations, less intelligent individuals often require more supervision and micromanagement to ensure they can handle their tasks effectively. They need constant guidance and oversight from authority figures. Conversely, smarter individuals tend to resist micromanagement, valuing autonomy and independence. This can be seen in the value and treatment of employees within different organizations. High-value employees, who tend to be more intelligent, are typically provided with trust and allowed to operate with a degree of freedom. In contrast, low-value employees, often with lower intelligence, may need closer monitoring and more hands-on management to maintain productivity.

Conclusion

The dynamics between intelligence and obedience are complex and multifaceted. Understanding these relationships can help leaders and policymakers design more effective systems and strategies that cater to the diverse needs of individuals. Whether in the animal kingdom or human societies, obedience plays a crucial role in maintaining order and stability. Yet, balancing this with the needs and aspirations of intelligent individuals is essential for creating a harmonious and productive environment.

By acknowledging the interplay between intelligence and obedience, we can work towards fostering a society where all individuals, regardless of their cognitive abilities, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.