The genetic model for the occurrence of supreme levels of ability more accurately matches reality than an environmental model. We know that polygentic traits in

The genetic model for the occurrence of supreme levels of ability more accurately matches reality than an environmental model. We know that polygentic traits in a population follow a normal distribution[1], which entails a regression to the mean for traits in offspring[2]. This means the occurrence of extreme ability is a function of the ability of the parents. While being rare, it becomes more likely if the parents themselves have some extreme traits. This dynamic matches what we see in the case of Terrence Tao and his brothers, the Polgar sisters, and other cases of savants/virtuosos that come to mind. Usually one child has extraordinary ability while their siblings are much less remarkable. If the environmental model were accurate, we should see many cases where families produce more than one extreme talent of equal skill. But we don't see that in practice. [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygene#Trait_distribution https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygene#Trait_distribution [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regression_toward_the_mean#History https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regression_toward_the_mean#His...