A life history model of the Lynn–Flynn effect

A new life history model of the Lynn–Flynn effect is presented based on the idea that life history speed is primarily associated with a trade-off between positive manifold strength (fast life history) and differentiation with respect to abilities (slow life history) rather than individual differences in levels of g (which instead function as a fitness indicator and are associated with pleiotropic mutation load). Given that the Lynn–Flynn effect concerns only the non-g variance in test scores it is proposed that it is associated with ability differentiation resulting from recent population-level shifts towards slower life history speed as a consequence of the mitigation of sources of environmental unpredictability and harshness, such as pathogen stress and malnourishment. Smaller family sizes are also significant as not only do they result from slower life history speed, but they might also potentiate further life history slowing. Education may also slow life history, furthermore it is involved in the cultivation of specialized patterns of cognitive abilities. Empirical predictions are made in the discussion, which if tested, could present definitive evidence either confirming or refuting the life history model. 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.