Why do so many people on Quora feel the need to state their IQ?

The phenomenon of people stating their IQ scores on platforms like Quora can be attributed to several reasons, although it is important to note that self-reported IQ scores are often unreliable and can be misleading. Here are some possible reasons:

Validation and Credibility

Some individuals may believe that mentioning their high IQ score lends credibility to their opinions or answers. They might think it establishes their intellectual authority on a subject, even though IQ scores do not necessarily correlate with expertise or knowledge in specific areas.

Ego and Self-Promotion

For some, stating their IQ can be a way to boost their self-image or to impress others. It may be a form of self-promotion, where the individual seeks to stand out or gain respect based on perceived intellectual superiority.

Misconceptions About IQ

There is a common misconception that IQ scores are a definitive measure of intelligence. People may not fully understand that IQ tests measure a narrow range of cognitive abilities and do not account for other important aspects of intelligence, such as emotional intelligence, creativity, or practical problem-solving skills.

Lack of Anonymity

On platforms like Quora, users often have profiles that can include various personal details. Some individuals might feel compelled to share their IQ scores as part of their profile information, possibly to differentiate themselves or to attract attention.

Psychological Factors

In some cases, people may share their IQ scores due to psychological factors such as insecurity or a need for validation. By highlighting a high IQ, they may feel more secure in their intellectual abilities or more confident in their interactions online.

Criticism and Skepticism

It's worth noting that many users on Quora and other platforms are skeptical of self-reported IQ scores. This skepticism arises because IQ tests are typically administered by professionals in controlled environments, and self-reported scores can be unreliable or exaggerated.

In summary, while stating IQ scores might seem like a way to establish credibility or impress others, it is generally viewed with skepticism and does not necessarily add value to the quality of one's contributions on platforms like Quora.