If people actually think the math gift is binary I can agree that would be harmful, just as in any other discipline. I also think that most people can be pushed

If people actually think the math gift is binary I can agree that would be harmful, just as in any other discipline. I also think that most people can be pushed much further than what is done currently in western countries. Just look at Russian children, I don't believe there are fundamental genetic reasons why they are often years ahead of for example Swedish pupils. I don't think it's helpful to downplay the role of genius. Top athletes inspire millions of children to work hard on their skills in football, basket, hockey etc, even though almost all of them obviously lack the genetics to reach the top.