I wouldn't argue against intelligence being highly genetic. But people usually aren't talking about intelligence. They're talking about success in life, be it

I wouldn't argue against intelligence being highly genetic. But people usually aren't talking about intelligence. They're talking about success in life, be it career or school. Our oldest had a terrible time at math early in this year, and the teacher thought she was doing well in the start because she never asked questions. But the first practice test showed otherwise. After that we made a point to ensure she understands math. It was a rough couple of months at the start of the year, but that's paid dividends and the last 5 have been pretty smooth. She didn't get smarter. And if she didn't have parents with the time and ability to help her, she woulda flunked.