The British Psychological Society, which oversees many of the psychology degrees in the UK has always emphasized the importance of students in psychology understanding the role of history in psychology. This is so we are aware of where ideas have come from, and where there have been mistakes, and so we can learn from them.

This chapter deals with genetic and environmental correlates of intelligence; much of this research deals with essential questions about the nature of humans and what drives and influences intelligent behavior. However, when it comes to genetic influences on intelligence, such is the history in some areas of study particularly around group differences in intelligence, this presents a difficult consideration.

Some individuals suggest that we should all refrain from considering research that considers the genetic origin of group differences in IQ, with some authors suggesting that the interest in the topic is problematic for several reasons