Intelligence helped make us human. What kind of problems did more intelligence allow us to solve?
A) coping with predators
B) general cognitive ability
C) coping with environmental change
D) getting better quality food

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intelligence has played a crucial role in the evolution of humans, enabling our ancestors to solve a variety of complex problems that contributed to our survival and development as a species. Here's how intelligence helped us address each of the issues listed:
A) Coping with predators: Greater intelligence allowed early humans to develop strategies for avoiding predators, such as creating shelters, using tools as weapons, and working cooperatively in groups to defend themselves. This also included the ability to anticipate predator behavior and create early warning systems, such as alarms or lookout posts.
B) General cognitive ability: Enhanced cognitive abilities facilitated the development of language, abstract thinking, problem-solving skills, and the capacity to plan for the future. This general cognitive ability allowed humans to innovate, create complex social structures, and transmit knowledge across generations, which was essential for the advancement of human societies.
C) Coping with environmental change: Intelligence enabled humans to adapt to a wide range of environments. Our ancestors could create clothing and build shelters to withstand different climates, develop agriculture to ensure a stable food supply, and store food for future use. This adaptability was crucial for migrating to and thriving in diverse habitats across the globe.
D) Getting better quality food: With higher intelligence, early humans learned to hunt more effectively and to gather a wider variety of edible plants. They also developed cooking, which not only made food safer to eat but also more nutritious and easier to digest. This led to an improved diet, which supported brain development and overall health.
In summary, increased intelligence allowed early humans to solve critical problems related to survival and adaptation, including coping with predators, enhancing general cognitive abilities, adapting to environmental changes, and securing better quality food. These advancements laid the foundation for the complex societies we have today.

Intelligence Helped Make Us Human